Anambra Journalists Empowered for Ethical Election Reporting at Landmark Workshop

Anambra Journalists Empowered for Ethical Election Reporting at Landmark

By Oge Onyeanusi Onitsha

Journalists across Anambra State convened in Awka for a transformative workshop on election coverage and media ethics, jointly organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and Anambra Patriots for Soludo.

Hosted at the Godwin Ezemo International Press Center, the workshop aimed to equip media professionals with the tools and principles necessary for accurate, ethical, and secure reporting during elections.

In his opening address, NUJ Anambra State Council Chairman, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, underscored the importance of continual ethical reorientation among journalists. He praised Anambra Patriots for Soludo for sponsoring the event and investing in the professional growth of media practitioners.

Keynote speaker, Architect Okey Ezeobi, Managing Director of the State Bureau of Public Procurements, highlighted the media’s influential role in shaping public perception. He called on journalists to remain steadfast in their commitment to truth and integrity.

Presenting on Election Processes and the Role of Journalists, Dr. Moses Ugbo described journalists as indispensable to democratic development. He urged them to prioritize accuracy, timeliness, and responsible reporting.

Renowned journalist Sir Victor Agusiobo, in his session on Physical Safety and Risk Assessment for Journalists, emphasized the importance of safety protocols for reporters working in high-risk or conflict-prone environments, while upholding objectivity and ethical standards.

Chairman of Anambra Patriots for Soludo, Chief Ejiamatu Enekwechi, along with the workshop’s Organizing Chairman, Ukpa Ewa, reiterated the importance of such training initiatives in strengthening media practice and preparing journalists for evolving challenges in the field.

The workshop, themed “Ethical Journalism and Journalists’ Safety in an Evolving Democracy,” drew participants from both print and electronic media. Dignitaries in attendance included the INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in Anambra, Dr. Queen Elizabeth Agwu, and Deputy Majority Leader of the Anambra State House of Assembly, Hon. Jude Akpua, PhD.

The event marked a significant step toward fostering a more responsible, secure, and professional press corps ahead of upcoming elections in the state.