The Federal Government has praised the National Media Complaints Commission (NMCC), Nigeria’s media ombudsman, for its impartial investigation that deemed Daily Trust’s report on the Samoa Agreement as inaccurate, misleading, and inconsistent with the Code of Ethics for Nigerian Journalists.
Rabiu Ibrahim, Special Assistant to the Honourable Minister of Information and National Orientation, stated that the NMCC’s ruling underscores the significance of journalistic integrity and accountability, highlighting the media’s essential role in shaping public perception through truthful reporting.
The statement emphasized, “The public expects news outlets to adhere strictly to professional ethics by ensuring their reporting is factual, fair, and balanced. This is crucial in preventing damaging reports like that from Daily Trust.”
The Federal Government acknowledged the necessity of a free press as a cornerstone of democracy but stressed that such freedom entails a responsibility to provide accurate and non-misinformative news. This commitment to truth is vital for the media’s role in holding government and institutions accountable.
The government also appreciated the NMCC’s recommendations, including a directive for Daily Trust to issue a public apology for its false report and implement measures to prevent similar occurrences in the future.
Furthermore, the statement recognized the need for increased transparency and proactive information dissemination from Federal Government institutions, promising that steps will be taken to ensure Nigerians are adequately informed about public interest matters.
The Federal Government remains dedicated to fostering an environment where the media can thrive while being held accountable to professional ethical standards. It called on all media organizations to uphold these standards and work collaboratively to disseminate accurate information, which is essential for a well-informed citizenry.
“This ruling by the National Media Complaints Commission against Daily Trust should serve as a benchmark for journalistic excellence and strengthen the relationship between the media, the government, and the citizens of Nigeria,” the statement concluded.