The Governor of Imo State, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has charged journalists to guard against fake news that could jeopardise the interests of the profession.
The Governor, who equally urged them to always defend the ethics of their profession, stressed the importance of ensuring accountability in their daily work.
The Governor spoke on Wednesday in Owerri, the capital of Imo State, during the Triennial National Delegates Conference of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ).
He described the journalism profession as a noble one that holds politicians accountable and ensures they fulfil their election promises.
While welcoming journalists to the 8th edition of the conference, he expressed his sincere appreciation to the leadership and members of the union for choosing Imo State, among other states in the federation, to host the event.
Governor Uzodimma commended the leadership of the NUJ for what he described as continuous progress and unity within the union. He also highlighted that journalism is the bedrock of a democratic government, holding those in power accountable, providing reliable information, and acting as the watchdogs of the people by exposing corruption and other shady activities of those in power.
The Governor lamented the effects of fake news in the democratic setting of the country and urged journalists to shun fake news and fabricated stories, emphasising that the menace had caused severe effects in the 2019 and 2023 general elections.
“We need to ensure the ability to check the facts,” he said, calling for proactive measures and equipping journalists with the knowledge of balancing news reporting.
The Governor reiterated the commitment of his administration to continue supporting and assisting the union. He urged journalists to continue holding politicians accountable and ensuring good governance by ensuring that leaders fulfil their election promises.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the National President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Mr. Chris Osiguzo, welcomed all journalists to the conference.
The NUJ President disclosed that the programme, titled “Owerri 2024 Media and Capacity,” highlighted that Imo State is not only safe but also hospitable, as witnessed and enjoyed by nearly 700 delegates from across Nigeria.
He thanked the Imo State Governor for creating what he called an enabling environment to host the conference and for giving him the privilege to serve for six years.
Describing the theme of the conference as timely, Mr. Osiguzo noted that his achievements over the past six years at the helm of the profession had raised the bar and laid a solid foundation for journalism in the country.
He charged the incoming executive members not to allow their personal differences to affect their official duties.