Journalists should stop distributing false information and should not be manipulated by politicians for financial gain, according to Prof. Timothy Ornguga, the Benue State Commissioner for Justice.
While speaking with reporters in Makurdi on Friday, he offered the words of wisdom.
The widespread practice of spreading false information and outright lies, particularly in attacks against the government and its appointees—including the distorting of court rulings—was Professor Ornguga’s main point.
He firmly believed that professional journalists had an obligation to dispel misinformation by reporting the facts to the public and that it was intolerable for social media users to spread incorrect information.
Prof. Ornguga emphasised the continued importance of accurate reporting for public enlightenment and urged journalists to verify material by contacting appropriate ministries and organisations before publishing.
Noting that it was the responsibility of the Ministry of Justice to guarantee that all citizens of Benue State, regardless of their religious affiliation, political leanings, or business preferences, he thanked the state’s journalists.