WHY ETHICAL JOURNALISM AND PUBLIC VIGILANCE MATTER TO ANAMBRA’S DEVELOPMENT
The Anambra State Commissioner for Information, Dr. Law Mefor, has encouraged journalists and residents to work together in promoting peace, security, and responsible information sharing across the state.
Speaking during a visit to the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Anambra State Council Congress at the Chief Godwin Ezemo NUJ Secretariat Complex in Awka, Dr. Mefor announced his intention to become a member of the Anambra State Council of the NUJ while retaining his membership of the Abuja Council. As an indigene of Abatete in Idemili North Local Government Area, he described the decision as a way of identifying more closely with media professionals in his home state.
He explained that journalism is more than reporting news. It is a profession that helps people make informed decisions, strengthens democracy, promotes accountability, and encourages peaceful coexistence. He urged journalists to remain committed to the core values of the profession by ensuring that every report is accurate, balanced, fair, and based on verified facts.
Dr. Mefor also stressed that security is everyone’s responsibility. He encouraged citizens to remain alert and report suspicious activities to the appropriate authorities. According to him, the campaign message, “See Something, Say Something, and Government Will Do Something,” reminds everyone that timely information from members of the public can help security agencies prevent crime, protect lives, and keep communities safe.
He further noted that journalists have a unique responsibility to educate the public, discourage the spread of false information, and provide credible reports that promote unity and development. He said responsible journalism builds public confidence and supports good governance by ensuring that people receive reliable information.
Dr. Mefor’s career as a communication scholar, author, and public affairs analyst reflects his longstanding commitment to effective communication and public service. Since becoming Commissioner for Information, he has continued to improve the flow of government information, making it easier for residents to understand government policies, programmes, and achievements.
He has also strengthened collaboration between the Ministry of Information and media organisations to promote transparency, accountability, and public participation in governance while providing sustained publicity for the developmental initiatives of Governor Chukwuma Charles Soludo.
Journalists at the congress welcomed Dr. Mefor’s decision to seek membership of the Anambra State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists. They described the move as one that will deepen cooperation between government and the media and further advance peace, security, and sustainable development in Anambra State.
The message from the gathering was clear. A peaceful and progressive society depends on responsible journalism, an informed public, and citizens who are willing to speak up whenever they notice anything that could threaten the safety and wellbeing of their communities.
