By Chinaza Osigwe
Over 100 journalists from across Anambra State gathered on April 10, 2025, for a one-day capacity-building workshop focused on strengthening election reporting and promoting professionalism in the electoral process.
The workshop, themed “Election Process: Role of INEC and Fundamental Duties of Journalists,” was organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Anambra State Council, in partnership with Anambra Patriots for Soludo. It was held at the Godwin Ezeemo International Press Center, Awka.
In his keynote lecture, Dr. Moses Ugboh (Esq) underscored the pivotal role of journalists as intermediaries between the government, politicians, and the electorate. He urged journalists to prioritize accuracy, neutrality, and context in their reporting, especially during election periods.
“Journalists are not just observers; they are active participants in the democratic process,” Ugboh said. “Your duty is to provide factual, balanced information that empowers citizens to make informed choices.”
He emphasized the need for news managers to verify information from multiple sources, incorporate diverse viewpoints, and provide explanatory journalism that simplifies complex electoral issues for the public.
Speaking on journalist safety, veteran journalist and media trainer Comrade Victor Agusiobo delivered a lecture titled “Physical Safety and Risk Assessment on Election Coverage.” He described elections as the “highest form of petitionary communication” in a democracy and stressed the media’s responsibility in upholding credible, peaceful, and transparent electoral processes.
“No one is fit to lead without the consent of the people,” Agusiobo said. “It is the media’s duty to safeguard that consent by ensuring every vote counts and is reported accurately.”
Anambra State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Queen Elizabeth Agwu, also addressed participants, calling for stronger collaboration between INEC and the media. She stressed that trust, mutual respect, and professionalism are essential to fostering a transparent electoral environment.
“INEC relies on journalists to disseminate accurate and timely information,” Agwu noted. “But journalists must also hold us accountable. That balance promotes fairness and public confidence.”
In his closing remarks, NUJ State Chairman, Dr. Odogwu Emeka Odogwu, commended participants and urged members to amplify the workshop’s messages across all media platforms. He described the event as a significant step toward equipping journalists with the tools needed to navigate election coverage responsibly and safely.
Dignitaries at the workshop included Chief Ejiamatu Damian, who chaired the occasion; Architect Okey Ezeobi; His Royal Majesty, Igwe Pius Omachonu; and Dr. Queen Elizabeth.
A major highlight of the event was the presentation of certificates to all participants, symbolizing their commitment to upholding the tenets of ethical journalism during the 2025 election cycle and beyond.
