From Kenechukwu Obiajuru, Yenagoa
The Bayelsa State Commissioner for Information, Orientation and Strategy, Mrs. Ebiuwou Koku Obiyai, has emphasized the importance of balanced reporting, urging journalists to seek the other side of a story in order to ensure accuracy and fairness.
Obiyai gave the charge in Yenagoa when the newly elected executive of the United Correspondents Chapel, UCC of the Nigeria Union of Journalists paid a courtesy visit in her office.
According to her, some disgruntled individuals may make untrue statements, and it is the responsibility of journalists to verify information before publishing.
She expressed delight that a recent dispute between the government and some journalists was resolved amicably, thanks to the intervention of the state government.
The Commissioner expressed gratitude that the dispute was resolved without escalating to a more serious level and appreciated the journalists involved for taking the necessary steps to rectify the situation.
Obiyai, congratulated the newly elected officers of the United Correspondents Chapel (UCC) and expressed her appreciation for the media’s cooperation and collaboration with the ministry, which has been instrumental in promoting the government’s policies and projects.
She stressed the importance of the partnership between the government and the media, highlighting the role of the media in educating and informing the public about governance issues, infrastructural development, and other matters of public interest, noting that the ministry has enjoyed a good working relationship with media practitioners from both the private and public sectors.
She addressed some of the challenges raised by the UCC, including the need for a generating set and television sets for their office, assuring the UCC that the ministry would consider their request if they submit a formal proposal.
Earlier, the United Correspondents Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Chairman, Mr. Ekaunkumo Amgbare, expressed gratitude to the Commissioner for granting them an audience despite her busy schedule.
Amgbare highlighted the importance of collaboration between the government and the media, emphasizing the role of journalists in informing, educating, and enlightening the public.
He commended Governor Douye Diri’s administration for its developmental projects, citing the transformation of Yenagoa into a modern city, citing several projects initiated by the Governor, including road construction, the Bayelsa International Stadium, and the New Yenagoa City Development.
He appreciated the Commissioner’s efforts in promoting the state’s development agenda and fostering a positive image of Bayelsa State.
The UCC chairman requested the Commissioner’s assistance in addressing some of their challenges, including the provision of a generating set and a television for their office, they also appealed for increased opportunities for their members to cover government events and programmes.
He pledged to continue using their media platforms to sensitize Bayelsans about the government’s transformative policies, ensuring the progress and development of Bayelsa State.
