The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo State Council, has commended Nigerian journalists for their contributions to national development, democratic consolidation and the promotion of accountability as Nigeria marks its 66th Independence Anniversary.
The Council, in a joint Independence Day statement by its Chairman, Mr Akeem Abas, and Secretary, Temidayo Adu, described the media as a critical institution in Nigeria’s democratic development.
It noted that journalists had continued to inform citizens, amplify public concerns and hold governments and institutions accountable through professional, responsible and ethical journalism.
The Council urged journalists to remain faithful to the ethics of the profession, particularly as the country enters another electioneering period.
It called on practitioners to uphold neutrality, fairness, balance and accuracy in their reportage, while providing all political actors with equal opportunities to present their views.
Oyo NUJ cautioned journalists against allowing their platforms to be used for blackmail, propaganda, character assassination, spread unverified information or undermine public confidence in the electoral process.
The Council stressed the need for journalists to rigorously verify information before publication and guard against misinformation, disinformation, hate speech and other forms of content capable of inflaming tensions or threatening peaceful coexistence.
It also urged political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns and engage citizens on policies, programmes and ideas capable of addressing the challenges confronting the country.
The Council called on Nigerians to uphold national unity, peaceful coexistence, patriotism and respect for democratic institutions.
It said the 66th Independence Anniversary provided an opportunity for citizens to reflect on the sacrifices of the nation’s founding generation and renew their commitment to building a peaceful, prosperous and inclusive Nigeria.
Oyo NUJ congratulated Nigerians at home and abroad on the anniversary, urging journalists to continue to place public interest at the centre of their professional responsibilities.
The Council said a media committed to truth, professionalism, accountability and ethical practice would remain a critical force in strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and advancing national development.
“Journalists must remain guided by truth, professionalism and public interest, particularly during electioneering. Our platforms must be used to inform, educate and hold public institutions accountable, rather than promote crisis or deepen divisions,” the statement said.
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