From Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
Kogi state. Governor, Alhaji Yahaya Bello on Friday in Lokoja warned against the practice of irresponsible Journalism that could cause the nation more harm than good in Nigeria.
Governor Bello who gave the warning at a Dinner put in place in honour of the 29th edition of the Nigeria Media Merit Award (NMMA) held in Lokoja, the Kogi state capital said that a truly free and vibrant press would move the country forward in all aspects.
The Governor admonished Journalists that they should rather embrace their social responsibility role that would promote peace, unity and accelerated development of their immediate society and Nigeria at large.
According to the Governor Responsible Journalism is the practice that mirrors the society through truth, accurate and balanced reportage adding, responsible Journalism should not entertain fake news and quacks in the profession.
He said the Nigeria Media Merit Award is a programme put in place to encourage practitioners to promote sanity in the profession and invoke accountability spirit in leadership.
Alhaji Yahaya Bello therefore, described the Media Merit Award as a welcome development to appreciate competence in the practice of Journalism.
In a special presentation on his achievements since he came on board, Bello said that he has excelled in the areas of security of lives and property, unity and equal opportunities for all citizens irrespective of tribe, religion and political differences, food security, quality education, effective healthcare delivery and empowerment of women and youths amongst others.
The Governor affirmed that Kogi is richly blessed with mineral resources and manpower potentials and vowed to block all leakages that would rub citizens of the benefit of these natural endowments.
Bello who assured potential investors of safety and enabling environment, however, wooed them to invest in the state for the benefit of mankind.
Rev. Dr. Paul Frank who spoke on building religious tolerance in the state, commended Governor Yahaya Bello for providing level play ground for all religions to strive in the state.
“The Kogi State Religious Council is proud of Governor Yahaya Bello for his spiritual and financial support to all religious bodies in the state saying that his spirit to build a befitting Chapel in Government House, is a resounding testimony even though he is a Muslim person.” Rev. Frank added.
