Otu Charges Editors To Defend Truth, Democracy Amid Rising Disinformation

Cross River State Governor, Senator Bassey Otu, has urged Nigerian editors to uphold truth, professional ethics and press freedom, describing them as critical guardians of democracy and national development.

Otu made the call in a goodwill message to the Nigerian Guild of Editors on Thursday during the 24th All Nigeria Editors Conference in Enugu State.

The governor, through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity and Chief Press Secretary, Linus Obogo, described the conference as a gathering of media professionals whose decisions and editorial judgement have a significant influence on public understanding and national discourse.

According to him, editors occupy a strategic position in any thriving democracy because they determine not only the information presented to the public but also how citizens interpret and respond to issues of national importance.

He commended Nigerian editors for using professional judgement, courage, balance and commitment to facts to help society distinguish between credible information and falsehood.

Otu, however, noted that the media was operating at a time of rapid technological change, with digital platforms expanding access to information while also creating new avenues for misinformation, division and challenges to established journalistic standards.

He urged the Nigerian Guild of Editors to develop stronger strategies for maintaining professional standards, protecting press freedom, rebuilding public trust, mentoring younger journalists and ensuring that technological innovation strengthens rather than undermines the pursuit of truth.

“Nigeria needs an editorial community that remains fearless without becoming reckless, critical without becoming cynical, and influential without surrendering its independence,” Otu said.

The governor described the press as an important partner in governance, social progress and peace-building, while commending the leadership and members of the Nigerian Guild of Editors for their contributions to national development.

He also congratulated Enugu State for hosting the conference, describing the Coal City as a fitting venue because of its history of enterprise, learning, culture, resilience and political engagement.

Otu wished participants fruitful deliberations and safe journeys, expressing hope that the conference would generate ideas capable of strengthening truth, justice, unity and responsible citizenship in Nigeria.