Practise Ethical Journalism, Eno, Others Tell Journalists

Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has expressed concern over the descent into falsehood, sensationalism and outright devotion to the campaign of calumny by some alarmist journalists, noting that such a negative narrative in the practice of the noble profession of journalism was antithetical to societal development.

He spoke at the 2026 New Year’s Thanksgiving of the State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) to begin the working year at the Qua Iboe Church (QIC) in Abak Intenge community of Abak local government area.

The governor impressed on the leadership of the State NUJ, led by Comrade Nsibiet Udo John, to lead the charge by encouraging members to stay within the line of ethical standards in journalism practice.

Represented by the commissioner for information, Dr Aniekan Umanah, the governor, who noted the cordial relationship with the media in the state since the inception of his administration in 2023, asked the union to regulate isolated cases of media gaffes.

He maintained that his administration has a tolerable disposition to media adversity. Still, he urged practitioners to stay within the bounds of professionalism and to join in the rebuilding process to ensure that sustainable development thrives.

“Free press has limits,” the governor said, urging the state NUJ chairman to preach ethical journalism amongst members to stay on the path of professionalism.

The host on the occasion and speaker of the state House of Assembly, Elder Udeme Otong (Abak), described the visit of journalists to his hometown, Abak Itenge, for the thanksgiving service as an oversight function to inspect roads, hospital and other social amenities provided for his constituents by the governor.

The speaker enjoined members to stay within the ambit of ethical journalism.

Responding, Comrade John explained that it became imperative to temporarily forget the troubles in families, the state and the central government, as well as other confrontational issues plaguing society, to make time to seek the face of God, who had benevolently ushered the members into the new working year.

He reminded politicians and leaders of their accountability and transparency, adding that journalists in the state would not look the other way while fraud, corruption and other vices occur within government. He promised that such reports would be handled within the realm of professionalism.

A former national legal adviser to the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Barr. Emmanuel Enoidem (SAN), appealed to journalists to be bold, courageous and independent in reportage that builds the society and shun monetary gratifications to cover the truth.