Warri – His Majesty, OGIAME ATUWATSE III, Olu of Warri, has charged media practitioners to always stand on the truth and shun irresponsible journalism at all times.
The Olu gave the charge today at his palace in Warri, Warri South Council Area of Delta State, when the Executives and members of the Nigerian Union Of Journalists, Warri Correspondents’ Chapel paid him a courtesy call.
The revered monarch while appreciating the role of the media as the fourth estate of the realm , said,
” Late Steve Jobs said , the most powerful person in the world is the story teller.
“Initially, I didn’t know the meaning. But now I do. Those who control what media establishments say are the powerful people.
“For a gathering of story tellers, journalists to come and want to partner with us, you’re doing us a great service.
“The way the world is today, the internet is both a blessing and a curse. The information tool, if not well used, can wreak havoc.
“We’re in the era of fake news. Someone can just from their own setting, create their own blog, their own spokesman put out information, package it well and people will gulp it, but it does a lot of harm.
“That’s where we come in as light bearers calling out irresponsible journalism, irresponsible reporting.
“We know different parties may sponsor through different outlets and everybody will tell the story from their angle.
” I’ll encourage everybody who has the resources to own a media house to do so. It’s important. But as neutral journalists, let’s stand on the truth and say it as it is.
“God has a way of rewarding those who do not compromise especially when it comes to the responsible role journalists play.
“In spite of all temptations you go through in your profession, I’m sure you know it’s rewarding when you resist and stand for the truth.
“Continue in that line so that our society can be much better. We’ll not hesitate to reach out to you.
the Olu, said.”
The royal father there after prayed for the various media houses represented during the visit.
Earlier the Chairman of the Warri Correspondents’ Chapel, Comrade Okies Vickies while congratulating the monarch, on his ascension to the throne of his forebears said, the union was ever ready to partner with the Palace in reporting royal activities and pledged the Union’s unalloyed loyalty to the royal stool.
He thereafter informed His Majesty of the upcoming NUJ Press week where the Monarch will be honoured as the life Patron of the Union.
In attendance were palace chiefs and some members of the royal family. Including,Chief Solomon Areyinka, Chief Johnson Amstseru leghe, Chief Brown Mene, Chief Dr. Roland Oritsejafor, Chief Patrick Iyaladju, Chief Bedi Giwa, Chief Omolubi Newuwumi,Chief Maleghemi Akpeto,Chief Eugene Ikomi,
