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 Journalists.
The governments position is contained in a statement by Rabiu Ibrahim,special assistant on media to the Minister of Information,Mohammed Idris.
It will be recalled that some report including the Daily Trust had published stories to the effect that part of the agreement was the re ignition of gay marriage and other obnoxious rules as conditions for Nigeria to benefit from foreign AIDS targeted in the pact.
The report led to public dismay and this prompted the Federal governments appeal to the NMCC for adjudication.
According to Idris,the ruling 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.
Said he,”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. ”
“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 Minister conveys the governments appreciation of the 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.
The call for increased transparency and proactive information dissemination by Federal Government institutions is duly noted, and steps will be taken to ensure that Nigerians are adequately informed about matters of public interest.
He stated further that the Federal Government is committed to fostering an environment where the media thrives while also remaining accountable to the ethical standards of the profession adding,”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.” He concluded
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