The federal government has commended the National Media Complaints Commission (NMCC), the Nigerian media Ombudsman, for its impartial and thorough investigation, which found Daily Trust’s report on the Samoa Agreement to be inaccurate, misleading, and not in line with the code of ethics for Nigerian journalists.
In a statement issued to newsmen yesterday in Abuja, the minister of Information and National Orientation, Muhammad Idris, stated that this ruling is a testament to the importance of journalistic integrity and accountability.
He emphasised that it also serves as a reminder of the media’s crucial role in shaping public perception through truthful and accurate reporting.
According to the statement, the public expects news outlets to adhere strictly to professional ethics and conduct by ensuring that their reportage is factual, fair, and balanced.
“This way, injurious reporting such as the one done by Daily Trust could be effectively avoided.”
The statement further stated that. “The federal government recognises that a free press is a pillar of democracy, but with this freedom comes the responsibility to report news in a manner that is accurate and devoid of misinformation. Only through this commitment to truth can the media effectively hold the government and institutions accountable.”
It said the federal government appreciates the NMCC’s recommendations, including the directive to Daily Trust to issue a public apology for its false report on the Samoa Agreement and take measures to prevent future occurrences.
It said the call for increased transparency and proactive information dissemination by federal government institutions is duly noted, and steps will be taken to ensure that Nigerians are adequately informed about matters of public interest.
The statement assured that the federal government is committed to fostering an environment where the media thrives while remaining accountable to the profession’s ethical standards.
“We call on all media organisations to continue to uphold these standards and work collaboratively to disseminate accurate information, which is essential for a well-informed and active citizenry.
“Let this ruling by the National Media Complaints Commission against Daily Trust serve as a benchmark for journalistic excellence and also strengthen the bonds between the media, the government, and the people of the Federal Republic of Nigeria,” the statement read in part.
