Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has urged Nigerian editors to rise above sensationalism and restore the public’s confidence in the media as a pillar of democracy.

While delivering a compelling address at the 2025 All Nigerian Editors Conference (ANEC) in Abuja, he said the survival of the nation’s democracy depends on the media’s integrity, fairness, and devotion to truth.

Rebuilding Credibility,  Confidence

Moreso, Governor Uzodimma noted that journalism occupies a sacred space in Nigeria’s democratic framework, not only as an instrument of information but as a guardian of truth and justice.

Also, he stressed that the media must continuously rebuild its credibility by prioritising verification, balance, and fairness above political or commercial interests.

“The public’s trust in the media is the soul of democracy,” he said. “If that trust is broken, democracy itself suffers. Editors must lead the charge in restoring faith in public information through truth-telling and objective reporting.”

Aside this, he added that national cohesion depends largely on how the media manages narratives and how editors shape public consciousness through ethical gatekeeping.

The Power of the Pen in Fragile Democracy

Uzodimma observed that the power of the press extends far beyond newsrooms, influencing perceptions, policies, and even peace in the country.

Therefore, he challenged editors to recognise their moral and constitutional responsibility in shaping the nation’s democratic future.

According to him, the strength of Nigeria’s democracy is inseparable from the credibility of its media.

He cautioned that false or exaggerated reporting can erode trust and widen divisions, while responsible journalism can strengthen unity and accelerate national development.

“The pen remains the most potent tool in nation-building,” the governor said. “How we use it determines whether we heal divisions or deepen them.”

Call for Professionalism in Digital Age

Acknowledging the challenges of the digital information era, Uzodimma expressed concern about the rapid spread of misinformation across social media platforms.

He emphasised that this reality makes the editor’s role more crucial than ever before.

“With everyone now a publisher, the traditional editor must become the filter of truth,” he declared. “Verification must be your anchor, balance your principle, and professionalism your guide.”

He charged media professionals to resist the lure of sensationalism and uphold ethical standards that distinguish credible journalism from unchecked online content.

The Media as Partner in Governance

Governor Uzodimma also reiterated that government and the media must work in partnership to build a more informed, united, and progressive nation.

The president called for continuous engagement between policymakers and media practitioners in promoting accountability and transparency.

While urging the media to hold government accountable, he stressed that such scrutiny should be guided by fairness and a commitment to national interest. “The goal must never be to destroy, but to build,” he said.

Editors as Custodians of National Unity

As the 2025 ANEC continues its deliberations on “Democratic Governance and National Cohesion: The Role of Editors,” Uzodimma praised the Nigerian Guild of Editors for sustaining an intellectual platform that deepens democratic reflection and professional ethics.

He reminded participants that beyond reporting, editors hold the power to influence unity, peace, and civic responsibility through their editorial judgment and the tone they set within their newsrooms.

“Let the stories you publish reflect hope, not despair. Let your headlines heal, not hurt. Let your journalism strengthen, not scatter,” he urged.

Toward a Stronger National Vision

In conclusion, the Imo State Governor reaffirmed his belief that responsible journalism remains one of the strongest tools for rebuilding trust in governance, restoring national pride, and uniting Nigerians across divides.

“Truth must never go out of fashion,” Uzodimma said. “Let us together make it the cornerstone of our democracy.”