Members of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) have been urged to deploy journalism as a tool for conflict prevention and peace-building as the forum commemorated World Press Freedom Day 2026.
Speaking at the event themed, “Journalism as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building,” held at the DOPF Secretariat in Asaba, Delta State, guest lecturer, Dr. Gideon Isika, charged journalists to use the media positively in shaping Nigeria’s future.
Dr. Isika described the theme as timely, noting that Nigeria’s democracy is increasingly under pressure due to persistent insecurity, conflicts, and governance challenges.
According to him, journalists must rise above political pressure, propaganda, and ethical lapses in order to uphold truth and foster national cohesion.
“Conflict is not entirely negative if properly managed, as it can lead to lasting solutions. But when poorly handled, it results in chaos, distrust, and underdevelopment,” he said.
He stressed that the media has a responsibility to guide society toward constructive outcomes, adding that the public has a right to truthful and accurate information.
“Journalists have what it takes to shape society positively, but many have failed to sustain pressure on government to ensure transparency and accountability,” he added.
Speaking on online journalism, Dr. Isika lamented the growing trend of misinformation, sensationalism, and lack of verification in digital reporting.
“Credibility is the cornerstone of journalism. Without trustworthiness and expertise, the profession becomes nothing more than distorted narratives,” he stated.
He also criticised what he described as “begging-bowl journalism” and the tendency of some practitioners to glorify political office holders instead of holding them accountable.
“Journalists must resist pseudo-reality, reject manipulation, and refuse to sacrifice truth for personal gain or political convenience,” he said.
Dr. Isika urged journalists to adhere strictly to global ethical standards, including accuracy, fairness, balance, and respect for diversity, while avoiding discriminatory and inflammatory reports capable of escalating tensions.
He further encouraged media practitioners to promote dialogue and national unity through talk shows, press engagements, and community forums aimed at reducing societal tensions.
“With journalists acting in good conscience and upholding professional ethics, national rebirth is possible,” he said.
“I want media practitioners to see themselves as critical stakeholders in nation-building because the survival and progress of Nigeria depend largely on the integrity and courage of its press.”
In his remarks, the Executive Assistant on New Media to the Delta State Governor, Comrade Felix Ofou, commended DOPF for maintaining independence, while calling for greater credibility and regulation within the profession.
“You cannot be a successful journalist without independence. Financial independence is at the heart of the profession, and that is why the idea of DOPF resonates with me,” Ofou said.
Other speakers at the event included Dr. Fred Oghenesivbe Latimore, Director-General of the Delta State Orientation Bureau; Mrs. Tracy, Director of the National Orientation Agency; Comrade Churchill Oyowe, Delta State Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ); and NAWOJ Chairperson, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo.
Earlier in his welcome address, Chairman of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, Mr. Emmanuel Enebeli, said DOPF is made up of qualified journalists committed to upholding ethical standards in online journalism.
He disclosed that membership of the forum is based on professional qualifications and that members operate media platforms duly registered with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
