The Benue State Commissioner for Justice, Prof. Timothy Ornguga, has urged journalists to refrain from spreading fake news and resist attempts by politicians to influence their reports through financial inducement.
Ornguga made the call on Friday during an interaction with journalists in Makurdi, the state capital.
The commissioner expressed concern over the increasing spread of false information, particularly reports targeting the state government and its appointees.
He said some reports had also misrepresented court judgments, warning that such misinformation could mislead members of the public and undermine confidence in the justice system.
Ornguga described the spread of fake news by social media practitioners as unacceptable and urged professional journalists to counter misinformation by providing accurate and verified information.
He advised journalists to cross-check facts by visiting relevant ministries, departments and agencies before publishing reports.
According to him, accurate and truthful reporting is essential to keeping the public properly informed and promoting accountability.
The commissioner also urged journalists to maintain their independence and resist financial inducements from politicians or other interests seeking to influence the content of their reports.
Ornguga commended journalists in Benue for their contributions to the state and assured them that the Ministry of Justice remained committed to ensuring access to justice for all residents.
He said the ministry would continue to work towards ensuring that every resident of the state, regardless of political affiliation, religion or business interest, had equal access to justice.
