By Precious Oham
The President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Chris Isiguzo, has called on journalists to uphold the ethics of the profession and shun fake news and misinformation.
Speaking at the Memorial Lecture in honour of Elder Anyim Ude in Enugu, Isiguzo urged the fourth estate of the realm to strive to bridge the gap between the digital world and the ethics of journalism to protect the good image of the profession.
While showering encomiums on the indelible legacies of Elder Ude in the noble profession, he noted that the lecture will inspire collective action to safeguarding the integrity of journalism and the rule of law.
“Elder Ude was an exemplary figure, a champion of justice, and a staunch advocate for press freedom. His unwavering dedication to the cause of truth and his tireless efforts to defend the integrity of journalism serve as an inspiration to us all.
“Today, we remember his contributions, not just to our profession but to society at large, and we commit ourselves to carry forward his legacy with unwavering commitment and integrity.
“The theme of our gathering today, “Freedom of the Press, Fake News, and the Rule of Law,” reflects the challenges and complexities we face in the digital age. As journalists and media professionals, we are entrusted with the responsibility of disseminating information accurately and responsibly.
“However, the spread of misinformation and the rise of fake news have emerged as formidable threats to our profession and the very fabric of our democratic principles.
“In this pursuit of truth, we must remain steadfast in upholding the principles of objectivity, impartiality, and accountability. As we engage in this dialogue today, let us remember that with freedom comes responsibility. Let us strive to bridge the gap between the digital world and the ethical boundaries that define our profession.
“I am confident that the memorial lecture by the former President of the Nigerian Bar Association, Mr Olu Akpata will be thought-provoking and enlightening.
“It is my hope that our discussions during this event will not only deepen our understanding of these critical issues but also inspire collective action to safeguard the integrity of journalism and the rule of law.”
