Mohammed Idris
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 Journalist.
Special Assistant to the Minister of Information and National Orientation. Rabiu Ibrahim said the ling serves as a testament to the importance of journalistic integrity and accountability and also a reminder of the crucial role the media plays in shaping public perception through truthful and accurate reporting.
“The public expects that news outlets will 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, he said on Tuesday, adding that
“The Federal Government recognizes 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. It is only through this commitment to truth that the media can effectively hold the government and institutions accountable.
“The Federal Government appreciates the recommendations made by the NMCC, 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 occurrence.
He admitted that the call for increased transparency and proactive information dissemination by Federal Government institutions was duly noted, and promised that steps will be taken to ensure that Nigerians are adequately informed about matters of public interest.
“The Federal Government is committed to fostering an environment where the media thrives while also remaining accountable to the ethical standards of the profession. We call on all media organizations to continue to uphold these standards and work collaboratively in the dissemination of 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.”
I think anyone considering publishing this on their media (online, etc.,), should add historical context to this conversation that balances the need for the FG to also be effective in its FOIs, transparent media inclusivity, and respect for the 4th Estate’s role of the media.
THISAGE recalls that stakeholders have always urged the government to embrace transparent media inclusivity by adhering to transparency and data accessibility, respect for FOI Act and respect for the fourt estate of the realm role of the media.
