Speaking while declaring open the NUJ Press Week with the Theme:
Ethical And Professionalism Expectations on Implementation of the Delta State
"SMART AGENDA", Governor Okowa noted that the
theme is a wake up call for journalists to always gauge the deliverance of
public policies and projects, while reminding leaders about the importance of
good governance. Good governance cannot be achieved when the press does not
have undeterred access to the process of governance. To do that, journalists should be responsible
in their professional conduct, taking into cognisance their social
responsibility and watchdog role in the society.
The
Governor noted that Prosperity for all DELTANS is not
just a slogan but a commitment… We are not giving DELTANS Fish but we are
teaching DELTANS how to fish.
Pointing out that the State Government is
media friendly and will continue to be so. It is important for government to
allow the journalists to carry out their watchdog role in the society if any
positive impact is to be made in socio-economic and political development of
our society. However, there is need to caution journalists in their reporting
to avoid propagating hate, especially and in a multi-ethnic society.
Governor
Okowa emphasized that if a reporter saw a truth and published it, it is for the
good of the society, as long as the principles of fairness and balance are
followed. What is unacceptable is to embark on creative writing and invention
of stories in order to discredit government. You cannot build anything on
falsehood and expect it to stand. Sooner or later, it will crumble. It is
divine judgment which no one can escape.
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