2027: Sokoto Information Commissioner, NUJ Chairman task journalists on ethics, public interest
From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto r
The Sokoto State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Alhaji Sambo Bello Danchadi, and the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council, Usman Mohammed Binji, have charged journalists to uphold professionalism, public interest and safety as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 general elections.
They spoke on Saturday in Sokoto during the state Congress of the NUJ, with the theme “Journalism and Political Campaigns: Between Public Interest and Political Influence,” where Danchadi served as Special Guest of Honour.
Danchadi commended the NUJ for choosing a timely and thought-provoking theme, describing the media as a vital pillar of democracy and trusted bridge between government and the people.
“Political campaigns are periods of heightened public engagement. During such times, journalists carry a greater responsibility to ensure citizens receive accurate, balanced and verified information that enables them to make informed decisions.
“Editorial independence, fairness, objectivity and adherence to professional ethics must continue to define journalism, even amid intense political activities,” he said.
The Commissioner said the administration of Gov. Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto remains committed to constructive engagement with the media while respecting the independence and professionalism of journalists.
Danchadi noted that its policies are guided by the Nine-Point Smart Agenda covering Security, Religious Affairs, Education, Healthcare, Economic Development, Agriculture, Water Supply, Youth Empowerment and Local Government Autonomy.
He said government would continue to present its record through achievements under the agenda and appealed to all political actors to conduct campaigns with maturity, responsibility and respect for democratic values, driven by ideas and issues rather than statements capable of creating tension.
“Sokoto State has a proud tradition of peaceful coexistence and we must all work together to preserve that heritage. Peaceful political engagement benefits everyone,” Danchadi said, urging journalists to remain vigilant against misinformation and disinformation, particularly on digital platforms.
In his remarks, Binji said the Council remains committed to professionalism, credibility and welfare of journalists through training on conflict-sensitive journalism, fact-checking and artificial intelligence.
He said journalism plays a vital role in the survival and strengthening of democracy and urged members to remain neutral, fair and guided by public interest.
“We must set the agenda for public discussion rather than allow politicians to dictate everything we report.
“Our responsibility is to serve the people, give voice to the voiceless and protect credibility of our profession,” Binji said.
The NUJ Chairman also cautioned colleagues to prioritize safety and avoid attending press conferences at unsafe locations outside the NUJ Press Centre unless proper security arrangements are in place.
“No story is worth losing a journalist’s life. As we approach 2027, let us remain fearless, fair and independent. A strong democracy requires a credible media, and a credible media depends on journalists who uphold truth and professional ethics,” he said.
The Senior Special Assistant to Gov. Ahmad Aliyu retired in Strategic Communication, Alhaji Nura Mahe, assured that the administration provides an enabling environment for journalists to practice without hindrance and for political parties,, including the opposition, to thrive.
He described the NUJ as an indispensable partner in progress whose doors remain open for constructive engagement.
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