DPO Urges Journalists To Uphold Professionalism, Verify Information Before Publication

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Victor Okpomor

Journalists have been called upon to uphold the highest standards of professionalism by prioritising fact-checking and verification in their reportage.

This call was made by CSP Josephine Ekebuike, Divisional Police Officer(DPO), “B” Division, Warri while playing hosting to members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, at the Division headquarters in Warri, Delta State.

CSP Ekebuike expressed concern over increasing spread of misinformation and unverified reports, particularly in the era of social media where information travels rapidly.

The Divisional Police Officer stressed that journalists have a responsibility to ensure that reports are thoroughly investigated and verified before publication, she noted that relying on a single source often leads to incomplete or misleading stories.

According to CSP Ekebuike, “t here is no way anyone can accurately know everything that is happening without proper verification. When you receive information, don’t stop at the first source. Reach out to relevant authorities, spokespersons and other stakeholders to hear all sides of the story before going public”.

CSP Ekebuike urged media practitioners to return to the core principles of investigative journalism, emphasizing that the profession should rise above personal interests and sensationalism.

She said that journalists play a critical role in shaping public perception, especially during periods of tension and crisis, and must therefore report responsibly to avoid causing unnecessary panic.

CSP Ekebuike lamented a growing trend where incidents are reported and shared widely without verification, often resulting in exaggerated casualty figures and distorted accounts of events.

The DPO noted that false reports are difficult to correct once they gain traction, as many people continue to believe the initial misinformation even after accurate facts emerge.

CSP Ekebuike added, “timely and accurate reporting is essential. By the time the truth comes out, panic may already have spread among families and communities. Professional journalists must distinguish themselves by providing credible and verified information”.

CSP Ekebuike recalled how the circulation of unverified information during a security-related incident in Delta State earlier in the year generated widespread anxiety and numerous inquiries from concerned residents.

She challenged members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists to position themselves as trusted sources of information in an age where virtually everyone with a smart phone claims to be a journalist.

She spoke further, “the public should be willing to wait for the NUJ’s version of events because they trust it will be factual and balanced. That should be your hallmark”.

She further urged journalists to explore innovative ways of making professionalism attractive and relevant in the digital age, while maintaining ethical standards that promote peace and social stability.

The DPO described the challenge of combating misinformation as a collective responsibility and encouraged media practitioners to continue playing their vital role in fostering an informed and peaceful society.

Earlier, Comr. Francis Sadhere, Vice Chairman of the NUJ Warri Correspondents’ Chapel who stood in for Comr. Akpokona Omafuaire, Chairman of the Chapel commended the DPO for her dedication and commitment to effective policing within the Division.

Comr. Sadhere reiterated the Union’s readiness to partner with the ‘B’ Division in information dissemination and public enlightenment initiatives aimed at promoting security and public safety in the area.

He explained that the visit was intended to formally introduce the new leadership of the Chapel to the DPO and further strengthen the existing cordial relationship between the media and the police.

According to him, journalists remain critical partners in progress, committed to constructive engagement with institutions and stakeholders in advancing peace, security and development in society.

The visit ended with both the NUJ Warri Correspondents’ Chapel and the B Division of the Nigeria Police Force expressing their commitment to deepening collaboration and fostering a mutually beneficial relationship in the interest of public safety, responsible information management and community development.