The Governor of Ondo State, Hon. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has commended the media for its indispensable role in driving development and maintaining accountability in the state.
Speaking through his Chief Press Secretary, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, during the opening of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Ondo State Council’s 2024 Press Week in Akure, the Governor described journalists as the “voice of the voiceless” and critical stakeholders in governance.
“As journalists, being the Fourth Estate of the Realm, it is expected of you to keep an eye on those in authority, be it the Executive, Legislature, or the Judiciary. You are expected to serve as watchdogs and protect the interests of the general populace,” Governor Aiyedatiwa stated.
The Governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering a safe and enabling environment for journalists to operate freely, emphasizing the importance of professionalism in combating the challenges of quackery and disinformation.
He noted that the relationship between the government and the media has strengthened under his leadership, adding, “We will continue to ensure you have the freedom to perform your duties without fear or intimidation.”
The event featured a public lecture and a panel discussion titled, “Setting Agenda Amidst Electioneering Paradox and Elusive Economic Development in Nigeria: The Media as the Fourth Estate of the Realm.”
The keynote speaker, Barrister Olumuyiwa Adu, highlighted the detrimental effects of ethnic biases on Nigeria’s political and economic landscape.
Adu praised the early pioneers of Nigerian journalism for their courage in exposing societal injustices and urged contemporary journalists to collaborate for the nation’s progress.
Dr. Abbass Mimiko, a former Zenith Labour Party (ZLP) governorship candidate, underscored the role of the press in representing the masses and ensuring that democracy delivers good governance.
“Democracy empowers the people to choose their leaders, but for progress to be achieved, their votes must count,” he remarked.
The event also saw an appeal from the NUJ Ondo State Council Chairman, Prince Leke Adegbite, to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a bailout to rescue struggling federal media organisations.
Adegbite also urged the Ondo State Government to support state-owned media, particularly Owena Press.
Additionally, Senator Adeniyi Adegbonmire, represented by Barrister Kayode Taiwo, reaffirmed the media’s role in educating the public and holding leaders accountable, calling it a “cornerstone of democracy.”
The occasion concluded with Hon. Abiola Makinde, Chairman of the event, emphasizing the importance of free speech and reflective journalism, and an award presentation to Ademola Odudu, Chairman of the Ondo State NURTW, who was recognized as the Distinguished Ondo State Peace Ambassador of the Year.
