Media practitioners in Delta State have been cautioned against the growing spread of defamatory remarks and misinformation within the political space as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
The Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr. Charles Aniagwu, represented by the Director of New Media, Mr. Timothy Agbaragu, gave the warning during the fourth anniversary celebration of Hill Nigeria Media and a capacity-building training for media personnel held in Asaba.
Aniagwu condemned what he described as the increasing trend of misinformation, baseless accusations, and personal attacks among political actors, stressing that such conduct weakens democratic values, threatens peace, and erodes public confidence in the electoral process.
He noted that the warning was timely, considering the heightened political activities and growing tension ahead of the elections.
The Commissioner expressed concern that unchecked defamatory content could incite conflict and mislead the electorate. He therefore urged politicians, their supporters, and media professionals to ensure that all information is properly verified before dissemination and to focus on issue-based campaigns rather than personal attacks.
While commending the organisers for the initiative, Aniagwu also urged journalists to uphold professionalism by providing accurate, factual, and credible reports.
Chairman of the occasion, Amb. Mayor Chinedu Enujeko, commended the organiser for her dedication, clear vision, and unwavering commitment to building a platform that promotes meaningful dialogue and positive transformation.
He said initiatives such as the training programme were crucial in empowering individuals, particularly young people, and fostering unity.
In his goodwill message, Enujeko congratulated the organiser on the successful hosting of the programme and wished her greater achievements in future endeavours.
“I commend you for organising such an outstanding programme. Your passion and hard work are evident, and I wish you even greater success as you continue to make a positive impact,” he stated.
He further acknowledged that the organiser had played a significant role in positively influencing and shaping his political career.
Addressing participants at the training, the Deputy Vice Chancellor of UNIDEL, Agbor, Professor Patrick Ijeh, alongside a Senior Lecturer and Sub-Dean in the Department of Journalism and Media Studies, Faculty of Humanities, Federal University Otuoke, Dr. Blessing Umunnah, urged journalists to remain committed to truth and uphold the ethics of the profession despite external pressures.
They highlighted key areas including fact-checking, conflict-sensitive reporting, and combating misinformation.
The training, aimed at strengthening professionalism among media practitioners, attracted journalists and media stakeholders from across the country and focused on promoting credible and responsible reportage ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In her remarks, the organiser of the programme, Mrs. Christy Aboghe, emphasised the critical role of the media in shaping public opinion and safeguarding democratic values. She noted that as the election period approaches, there is an increasing need for accuracy, balance, and ethical standards in reportage.
Some participants described the training as timely and impactful, adding that it equipped them with modern tools and strategies to navigate the evolving media landscape.
They also praised the organiser for hosting a well-structured and engaging programme and expressed hope for future editions.
The anniversary celebration featured goodwill messages and renewed calls for collaboration among stakeholders to ensure credible and peaceful electoral processes in 2027.
