NUJ: No Journalist Arrested Under Oborevwori, Names Him Media-Friendly Governor Of The Year

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has named Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, as Media-Friendly Governor of the Year, saying no journalist has been intimidated, harassed or arrested in Delta under his administration.

The award was presented on Saturday at the 4th NUJ Annual Milestone Recognition of Media Icons in Nigeria, held at the Abuja Continental Hotel, Abuja.

NUJ National President, Comrade Alhassan Yahya, said the union’s records showed zero cases of harassment of journalists in Delta in the discharge of their duties.

He commended Oborevwori for maintaining a cordial relationship with journalists and for his administration’s investments in roads, payment of inherited debts, and welfare programmes for widows and vulnerable families.

Oborevwori, who was represented by his Chief of Staff, Prince Johnson Erijo, also delivered the keynote address on the theme, “Strengthening Democracy Through Responsible Journalism and Good Governance.

“In the address, the governor said a free and responsible press is indispensable to democracy, noting that citizens can only hold leaders accountable when they have access to credible information.

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He said democracy and journalism reinforce each other — democracy guarantees press freedom, while responsible journalism strengthens democratic institutions.But he warned that press freedom must come with responsibility.

He urged journalists to uphold accuracy, fairness and integrity, and warned against misinformation, hate speech and unverified reports, especially in the digital age where pressure to break news can undermine facts.

“Public trust is the foundation of journalism. Once lost, it is difficult to regain,” Oborevwori said.

He urged media practitioners to remain independent, courageous and committed to the public interest.

Earlier, Yahya said the recognition programme was created to celebrate individuals whose contributions have made lasting impacts on journalism, humanity and national development.

He said Oborevwori’s acceptance of the invitation showed his appreciation of the media’s role and the importance of constructive engagement between government and journalists.

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Chairman of the occasion and former NUJ President, Dr. Chris Isiguzo, commended the NUJ leadership for sustaining the annual recognition, saying continuity in leadership is essential to building strong institutions.

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