Stakeholders Identifies Unbiased Media Coverage, Rebirth Of Values In Tackling Escalating Insecurity

Ogheneruona Tejiri, Asaba

Security stakeholders at the 5th Annual Lecture Series of Delta Online Publishers Forum (DOPF) have identified importance of unbiased media coverage as well as urgent need for a rebirth of values in tackling Nigeria’s escalating insecurity.

The 2024 Series brought together key figures from various sectors to explore local, implementable solutions to the nation’s security crisis.

The lecture, titled “Security Challenges: Finding a Local Implementable Solution,” featured prominent speakers, including the Governor of Delta State, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, representatives from security agencies and notable media professionals with the focus to confront the rising security concerns in the country while offering practical and locally driven solutions.

Governor Oborevwori, represented by Dr. Ifeanyi Osuoza, Commissioner for Information, echoed these sentiments, he urged the media to practice responsible journalism, he highlighted state government’s ongoing efforts to combat insecurity, such as rebranding the “Delta Hulk” operation to “Operation Delta Sweep” and providing 31 operational vehicles to support the police and other security agencies.

According to Rt. Hon. Oborevwori, “security is central to our administration. We have taken bold steps to combat crime and we rely on the media to ensure that their reports are factual and balanced, promoting national unity.”

Governor Oborevwori reiterated his administration’s commitment to ensuring peace and security in Delta State. He commended the collaboration between security agencies and other stakeholders just as he called for continued support from the media in delivering accurate news that promotes unity and progress.

ACP Olumuyiwa Adejobi, the Force Police Public Relations Officer (FPRO), who was the Guest Speaker, called on journalists to steer clear of involvement in cybercrimes, such as fraud, fake news, and misinformation.

ACP Adejobi noted that young Nigerians, often highly skilled in Information and Communication Technology (ICT)are frequently misusing their expertise for criminal activities, making it increasingly difficult for security forces to maintain order.

According to ACP Adejobi, ” Nigeria government is actively fighting these issues with President Bola Tinubu having ordered a clampdown on cybercriminals.”

ACP Adejobi stressed the importance of collective efforts to combat cybercrime, he warned against “paid journalism,” condemning journalists who accept money for stories that undermines public trust and the ethical standards of the profession.

ACP Adejobi advocated for a community-driven approach to policing, stressing the need for traditional leaders and local institutions to play active roles in formal security efforts.

He added, “until we adopt collective policing, we can’t get it right. Involving traditional rulers in security initiatives can significantly contribute to peace”.

He also cautioned journalists to be wary of unverified reports, particularly on social media, where the spread of misinformation is rampant.

In his remarks, Mr. Emma Ogidi, Chairman of the occasion, he called for greater engagement with local vigilante groups to address security challenges, stressing the importance of accurate and balanced reporting, particularly in political matters.

In his opening remarks, Emmanuel Enebeli, Chairman, DOPF, stated that the theme was chosen because of the shared and collective concerns of the people on security challenges in the country.

According to Mr. Enebeli, “today’s lecture strongly underlines our professional obligation and social responsibility as Delta Online Publishers Forum.

“It is not only to report on these challenges but to also actively seek solutions that contribute to the safety and security of our society.

“The need for security solutions are urgent, as the threat touches every fabric of our nation from our cities to the smallest community.”

The discussions at the DOPF Annual Lecture Series highlighted the urgent need for a unified front in combating insecurity in Nigeria. Through responsible journalism, community engagement, and cooperation with security forces, the country can hope to achieve a safer and more secure future.

At the panel of discussion, experts including Professor Odikasieme Emmanus Nonye, Chairman of Association of Licensed Private Security Practitioners of Nigeria (ALPSPN) Delta State; Bridget Dominion Foh Affiah, Executive Director, Ideal Women Advancement Initiative; Amb (Pst.) Edewor Egedegbe, Founding Executive Director of VREL and Mr. Odita Sunday-Udememaguna, Head, Defence/Security Affairs at The Guardian Newspaper with Prof Kemi Emina Moderating, emphasised the importance of value rebirth. They agreed that the process should begin at the family level and extend across the entire nation.