Dr. Gideon Isika, an Associate Professor of Mass Communication at Dennis Osadebay University, Asaba, Delta, has urged journalists to promote peace amid Nigeria’s challenges.
Lecture for World Press Freedom Day
Isika made the call during a lecture to mark “World Press Freedom Day,” themed “Journalists as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building.” The event was organized by the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) in Asaba on Wednesday.
Media’s Role in Conflict Resolution
He emphasized that the media plays a vital role in resolving conflicts, especially given Nigeria’s socio-economic and political issues.
Fostering Peace and Unity
He urged media professionals to actively foster peace, accountability, and national cohesion. Isika expressed concern that Nigerian media has not sufficiently taken responsibility for shaping discourse toward unity and stability, despite the country’s ongoing governance challenges.
Limited Efforts for National Rebirth
He noted that efforts by journalists to ignite national renewal remain limited, with many Nigerians blaming historical factors like the 1914 colonial amalgamation.
Moving Beyond Blame
“The media must go beyond blame narratives and focus on actionable solutions that promote cohesion and development,” he stressed.
Learning from Other Countries
Isika compared Nigeria to countries like Botswana, Mauritius, Rwanda, South Africa, and Egypt, which have made progress despite difficult beginnings.
Nigeria’s Development Struggles
He criticized Nigeria’s failure to translate its resources into meaningful development, citing a scholar, Aghalino, who said Nigerian journalists often fail to pressure governments for transparency and accountability.
Media as Propaganda Tools
He claimed some segments of the media have been co-opted into serving propaganda interests of political and military elites.
Linking Governance to Insecurity
Isika linked poor governance, corruption, and mismanagement to rising insecurity and violence, warning that exploitation of institutions undermines public safety.
Concerns Over Editorial Independence
He raised concerns about compromised editorial independence, alleging some media leaders are influenced by government patronage, weakening journalism’s credibility.
Call for Ethical Journalism
Despite challenges, Isika emphasized that journalists remain agents of change and must uphold ethics, truth, and the public’s right to accurate information.
Journalists’ Responsibilities
“The journalist must report based on verified facts. There should be no suppression or falsification,” he said.
Urging Fair and Responsible Reporting
Churchill Oyowe, Nigeria Union of Journalists State Chairman, and Felix Ofou, Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori’s New Media Director, called on journalists to uphold fairness, objectivity, and responsibility.
Media’s Role in Highlighting Policies
Dr. Latimore Oghenesivbe, Director-General of the State Orientation Bureau, praised the media’s vibrancy and independence in covering government initiatives.
DOPF’s Commitment to Professional Growth
Chairman Emmanuel Enebeli said the forum has 50 registered practitioners and organized the event to build competent professionals, promote peace, and ensure accountability.
Annual Lecture Initiative
Enebeli announced plans to make this lecture an annual event, thanking all supporters and participants
