Anambra Monarch Cautions Journalists Against Sensational, Untruthful Damaging Reports

HRM Igwe Godwin Nwabunwanne Odiegwu, Eze Di Oranma of Abacha Ancient Kingdom

By Eche Nwaobasi, Onitsha/Nnewi

The traditional ruler of Abacha Ancient Kingdom in Idemili North Local Government Area of Anambra State, HRM Igwe Godwin Nwabunwanne Odiegwu, has cautioned Nigerian journalists against publishing sensational, untruthful and damaging reports capable of tarnishing the image of public figures and government officials.
The monarch specifically advised journalists practicing in Anambra State to desist from using their media platforms and reportage to smear the reputation of public office holders and governments, either to settle personal scores or to pursue selfish interests.
According to him, such unethical practices diminish the integrity and credibility of journalism as a profession entrusted with the responsibility of being the voice of the voiceless in society.
Igwe Odiegwu gave the warning while reacting angrily to reports allegedly published by an online television outfit, Sclan Television, under the headline: “Igwe Abacha Blasts Gov. Soludo.”
Refuting the publication, the monarch described the report as false, baseless, misleading and entirely fabricated.
“Myself and the larger population of my community have remained supportive of Governor Chukwuma Soludo’s administration. We contributed immensely toward supporting and securing the governor’s first and second term victory, and we have continued to identify with his government,” he stated.
The traditional ruler expressed displeasure that the publication portrayed him as hostile to Governor Soludo’s administration, insisting that he never granted any interview to the medium concerning the activities or performance of the Anambra State Government.
According to the visibly enraged monarch, the publication was a deliberate attempt to misrepresent his position and create unnecessary tension between him and the state government.
Igwe Odiegwu emphasized the need for journalists and media organizations to always crosscheck facts and verify information before going to press, in order to avoid damaging the reputation and integrity of individuals through false reports.
He further called on the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and other relevant regulatory and disciplinary bodies to rise to the occasion by sanitizing the journalism profession and ensuring that factual, balanced and truthful reports are upheld at all times.
“Journalists should not use their position to malign or blackmail public figures or governments in order to settle personal scores or advance selfish interests. They should remember that, as the fourth estate of the realm, they remain the hope of the common masses in this country,” he added.