Members of the Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) have been urged to use journalism as a tool for conflict prevention and peace building as the forum commemorated World Press Freedom Day 2026.
The call was made during an event themed “Journalism as a Tool for Conflict Prevention and Peace Building,” held at the DOPF Secretariat in Asaba, Delta State.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Dr. Gideon Isika charged journalists to deploy the power of the media positively in shaping Nigeria’s future.
He described the theme as timely, noting that Nigeria’s democracy is facing growing challenges caused by insecurity, persistent conflicts, and governance issues.
According to Dr. Isika, journalists must rise above political influence, propaganda, and ethical compromises in order to uphold truth and promote national unity.
“Conflict is not entirely negative if properly managed because it can lead to lasting solutions. However, when poorly handled, it results in chaos, distrust, and underdevelopment,” he said.
He stressed that the media has a responsibility to guide society toward constructive outcomes, insisting that journalists must remain committed to truth because the public has a right to accurate information.
Dr. Isika also lamented the growing spread of misinformation, sensationalism, and lack of verification in online journalism, warning that credibility remains the foundation of the profession.
“Without trustworthiness and expertise, journalism becomes nothing more than distorted narratives,” he stated.
He criticised what he described as “begging-bowl journalism” and the practice of excessively promoting political office holders, urging journalists to function as watchdogs rather than lapdogs of those in authority.
“Journalists must resist manipulation, reject pseudo-reality, and refuse to sacrifice truth for personal gain or political convenience,” he added.
The media scholar further advised practitioners to strictly adhere to global ethical standards, including accuracy, fairness, balance, and respect for diversity, while avoiding inflammatory reports capable of escalating tensions.
He encouraged journalists to use their platforms to promote dialogue, shared national values, and constructive engagement through talk shows, press briefings, and community forums aimed at reducing societal tensions.
“With journalists acting in good conscience and upholding professional ethics, national rebirth is possible,” Dr. Isika said, adding that the survival and progress of Nigeria depend largely on the integrity and courage of the press.
Also speaking at the event, the Executive Assistant on New Media to the Delta State Governor, Comrade Felix Ofou, commended DOPF for maintaining its independence while calling for greater credibility and regulation within the profession.
“You cannot be a successful journalist without independence. Financial independence is at the heart of the profession, and that is why the idea behind DOPF resonates with me,” Ofou stated.
Other speakers at the event included the Director-General of Delta State Orientation and Communications Bureau, Fred Oghenesivbe; a representative of the National Orientation Agency, Mrs. Tracy; Delta State NUJ Chairman, Comrade Churchill Oyowe; NAWOJ Chairperson, Comrade Sonia Unobunjo; and several other stakeholders.
Earlier in his remarks, Chairman of the Delta Online Publishers Forum, Comrade Emmanuel Enebeli, said the forum is made up of qualified journalists committed to promoting ethical standards in online journalism.
He explained that membership of the forum is based on professionalism, academic qualifications, and registration of members’ media organisations with the Corporate Affairs Commission (CAC).
