Gov Oborevwori not silencing critics – Bureau Chief
…Emphasizes constructive criticism, fair and balanced reporting
Dr Fred Latimore Oghenesivbe, Director General of Delta State Bureau for Orientation and Communications, has debunked the trending reports on social media platforms, alleging that the state governor, Rt Hon Sheriff Oborevwori, was tacitly suppressing dissenting voices.
The Bureau Chief in a statement on Sunday, and made available to newsmen in Asaba, said governor Oborevwori is an Apostle of Press Freedom, and that he encourages constructive criticism, fair and balanced reporting.
He, however, pointed out that freedom of the press or freedom of expression does not permit any writer or journalist to deliberately or mischievously blackmail and defame fellow citizens or politically exposed persons.
The Bureau Chief warned that the matter involving the State and social media influencer, Mr Oghenetega Akpodoro (aka Fejiro Oliver) is currently before the courts, making it sub judice, as such, it’s best to exercise caution and respect the legal process.
Dr Oghenesivbe, a lawyer and a Minister in the Temple of Justice, said press freedom isn’t absolute; it’s a right that comes with responsibilities and limitations, pointing out that while freedom of expressing is essential for a functioning democracy, it must be exercised with respect for laws, individual rights and the rule of law, as well as national and sub national security.
He explained that responsible journalism involves balancing freedom with accuracy, fairness, and accountability, urging journalists, writers and social media influencers to take cognizance of the core principles of fair and balanced reporting which include; objectivity, neutral language, accuracy, multiple perspectives, separation of facts and opinion, and avoidance of conflicts of interest.
He charged journalists and social media influencers to always devote quality time to rigorous fact-checking by using multiple, independent sources for verification to ensure that stories and information going out to the public are correct and not misleading.
Dr Oghenesivbe said objectivity and constructive criticism connotes presenting verifiable facts without injecting personal opinions, feelings, or prejudices, pointing out that true objectivity is a goal, but journalists should be transparent about potential biases and prioritize reporting the verifiable truth.
“It’s unfair for some civil rights activists to allege that a pending criminal matter in courts of competent jurisdictions is a deliberate attempt by the governor of Delta State to silence dissenting voices.
“This is an entirely unfair allegation against a governor that is very media friendly. it’s on record that governor Oborevwori regularly funded several professional training programmes to sharpen the skills of journalists, media executives and social media influencers in the state.
“Time without number, governor Oborevwori emphasized the need for constructive criticism, fair and balanced reporting to enhance good governance, upscale development and dividends of democracy. It is therefore not true that he’s suppressing dissenting voices in the state
“It must be emphasized that the matter between the State and Mr Oghenetega Akpodoro aka Fejiro Oliver is pending in Courts, and therefore sub justice. The legal implication is that publishing or commenting on the case can be considered contempt, potentially leading to penalties.
“It’s generally advisable to avoid public discussion or commentary on the case to respect the legal process. The sub judice rule aims to ensure fair trial and prevent external influences.
“Governor Sheriff Oborevwori will continue to do the needful to fulfill his electioneering promises to the good people of Delta State. It’s therefore important to emphasize again and again that constructive criticism are welcome to promote good governance; accountability, transparency and responsible leadership,” Oghenesivbe said.
