Ikeogwu, Oyowei, Ochei Honoured At NUJ Workshop On Social Media Ethics

The immediate past Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Delta State Council, and Senior Special Assistant (SSA) to the Governor, Comrade Michael Ikeogwu, has called on media practitioners to take control of the social media landscape to restore public trust in journalism.

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He made this appeal while speaking on “The Role of Social Media: A Tool for Democratic Consolidation” at a one-day capacity-building workshop organized by the NUJ Sapele Correspondents’ Chapel in collaboration with the Sapele Local Government Council.

Addressing journalists and media stakeholders, Ikeogwu warned against the growing influence of misinformation and fake news, stressing that professional journalists must assert themselves in the digital space. “Social media is a double-edged sword. It can empower, but it can also destroy if misused. As journalists, we must ensure that truth and objectivity guide our work,” he stated. He urged media professionals to use digital platforms to promote accurate information and counter misleading narratives that threaten democracy and national stability.

Speaking further, Ikeogwu highlighted the essential role of the media in governance, social enlightenment, and mobilization. He noted that journalism serves as a critical bridge between the government and the people, making it indispensable for good governance, democratic consolidation, and national development. He called on journalists to embrace new technologies and engage their audiences meaningfully to ensure that credible voices shape public discourse.

The chairman of the NUJ Delta State Council, Comrade Churchill Oyowei, who also delivered a presentation at the workshop, emphasized the importance of continuous training for media professionals. “In today’s fast-changing digital world, journalists must constantly update their skills. Ethical reporting and digital literacy are essential in combating misinformation and ensuring responsible journalism,” he said.

In recognition of their contributions to journalism and media development in Delta State, Ikeogwu, Oyowei, and the immediate past Secretary of the NUJ Delta State Council, Comrade Patrick Ochei, were presented with awards of excellence. The NUJ Sapele Correspondents’ Chapel described them as outstanding media leaders committed to press freedom, professionalism, and capacity-building in the industry.

Receiving his award, Ochei commended the NUJ Sapele Correspondents’ Chapel for organizing the workshop and pledged to continue supporting initiatives that enhance journalism standards in Delta State. He called on media practitioners to uphold the ethics of the profession and resist the temptation to spread sensational or unverified reports.

The workshop, attended by journalists, government officials, and media experts, focused on the role of social media in shaping democratic governance. Participants applauded the initiative, stressing that such engagements are necessary to combat fake news, strengthen ethical journalism, and ensure media professionals remain at the forefront of credible information dissemination in Nigeria.