Delta Journalists Warned Against Defamatory Political Reporting Ahead Of 2027 Elections
MEDIA practitioners in Delta State have been cautioned against the rising spread of defamatory remarks, misinformation and unverified political content as activities ahead of the 2027 general elections begin to intensify.
The warning was issued during the fourth anniversary and media capacity-building training organised by Hill Nigeria Media in Asaba, the Delta State capital.
Commissioner for Works (Rural Roads) and Public Information, Mr Charles Aniagwu, who was represented by the Director of New Media, Mr Timothy Agbaragu, expressed concern over what he described as increasing misinformation, baseless accusations and personal attacks within the political space.
According to him, such trends threaten democratic values, undermine public trust and could trigger unnecessary tension if not properly checked.
He noted that the approach of the 2027 elections has already heightened political activities across the country, making responsible journalism and ethical reporting more critical than ever.
Aniagwu warned that defamatory content and fake narratives, if allowed to spread unchecked, could mislead voters and incite conflict.
He urged politicians, media professionals and political supporters to prioritise issue-based engagement instead of attacks aimed at damaging reputations.
The commissioner also called on journalists to uphold professionalism by verifying information before publication and ensuring that reports remain factual, balanced and credible.
Commending the organisers for the initiative, he described the training as timely and necessary in strengthening responsible journalism ahead of the elections.
Chairman of the occasion, Amb. Mayor Chinedu Enujeko, also praised the organiser, Mrs Christy Aboghe, for her commitment to promoting meaningful dialogue and professional growth within the media industry.
He said programmes focused on capacity building and ethical journalism remain important in empowering young professionals and promoting national unity.
“I commend you for organising such an outstanding programme. Your passion and hard work are evident, and I wish you even greater success as you continue to make a positive impact,” he stated.
Enujeko further acknowledged the role the organiser had played in positively influencing his political journey.
Speaking during the training, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of the University of Delta (UNIDEL), Agbor, Professor Patrick Ijeh, alongside a senior lecturer in Journalism and Media Studies at the Federal University Otuoke, Dr Blessing Umunnah, urged journalists to remain committed to truth, fairness and professional ethics despite external pressures.
They stressed the importance of fact-checking, conflict-sensitive reporting and combating misinformation in the digital era.
The training, which attracted journalists and media stakeholders from across the country, focused on promoting credible and responsible reporting ahead of the 2027 elections.
In her remarks, organiser of the programme, Mrs Christy Aboghe, emphasised the critical role of the media in shaping public opinion and protecting democratic values.
She said there was an urgent need for accuracy, fairness and ethical standards in political reporting as the country gradually moves towards another election cycle.
Some participants described the training as timely and impactful, noting that it provided practical strategies for navigating the evolving media landscape and combating fake news.
The event also featured goodwill messages and renewed calls for collaboration among journalists, civil society groups and political stakeholders to ensure peaceful and credible elections in 2027.
