Amaechi Tasks Media On Nation’s Security

Rivers State Governor, Rt. Hon. Chibuike Rotimi Amaechi, has charged Editors in the nation’s news media to set up a mechanism that would ensure proper dissemination of information that would enhance security of the nation.

He gave this charge at the Weekend at the Nigerian Guild of Editors annual conference held in Uyo, Akwa-Ibom State.

Represented by his Deputy, Engr. Tele Ikuru, Governor Amaechi noted that the theme “The Nigerian Editor and National security” is a step in the right direction to check the activities of media reportage all over the federation.

He observed that Editors are responsible for the activities of their correspondents, holding to core ethical values of their profession, adding that they would be held accountable for reports that undermine national security.

Governor Amaechi also urged them to ensure that news reporting is such that would promote peace, security, social and economic development in the country, saying “Nigerian media should not be seen as telling stories through the eyes of others but that which gives accurate reportage in the interest of all”. Also speaking, the Governor of Plateau state, Mr. Jonah Jang, noted that some of the security challenges in Nigeria today emanate from the media propaganda in dishing out information to the society. Governor Jang asked for the coroporation of the media as gate-keepers to maintain peace and stability in the country through information since security is every “body’s business. The host Governor, Obong Godswill Akpabio said the press plays a key role in shaping the views and commended them, however, for being responsible in their reportage. He used the occasion to call for the diversification of the nation’s economy, noting that the Niger Delta region has been bedeviled by environmental hazards arising from oil exploration. Other dignitaries at the occasion were, Governor of Delta state, Dr. Emmanuel Uduaghan, former governor of Ogun State, Chief Segun Osoba among others.