By: David Onuoja, Abuja
The Minority Leader of the 9th House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Godwin Elumelu, and Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council Abuja, has called on journalists, political actors and citizens to unite against the rising threat of disinformation ahead of the 2027 general elections; even as he urged them to be ready to defend democracy at all time. Saying, fake news and propaganda could undermine Nigeria’s democracy if not confronted decisively.
Elumelu made the call on Tuesday while delivering the keynote address at the 2026 Nigeria Union of Journalists FCT Council Press Week Lecture and Awards Night at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja.
Speaking on the theme, “2027 Election: Defending Democracy in the Era of Disinformation,” he described disinformation as one of the greatest threats to the nation’s democratic process.
He said Nigeria stands at a defining moment ahead of 2027, facing not only familiar political challenges but also the weaponisation of disinformation. According to him, misinformation, disinformation and propaganda have moved from the fringes to become tools for manipulating political discourse, distorting public perception, weakening institutions, eroding trust, and fueling division and violence.
Elumelu also noted that democracy depends on an informed public capable of making rational choices, but warned that a public space saturated with falsehoods and manipulative narratives fractures democratic foundations. He cited the growing use of fabricated news stories, AI-generated and doctored images and videos, and false data designed to inflame passions, scandalize individuals and discredit institutions.
The former lawmaker equally urged the media to uphold professionalism and resist the pressure to sacrifice accuracy for speed. He said media houses must strengthen their capacity to blend fact and speed, and that ethical journalism grounded in objectivity, fairness and balance is essential during electoral cycles. Adding that the media has a duty to educate citizens to recognize false information and make informed decisions.
Elumelu also cautioned journalists against allowing politicians to manipulate coverage for selfish interests. He said the press should deny prominence to politicians who lack achievements and instead resort to falsehood, defamation and negative propaganda. He urged the political class to play by the rules, present their scorecards and vision, and avoid spreading falsehoods to overheat the polity.
Earlier, NUJ-FCT Council Chairman, Comrade Grace Ike said the theme was timely and significant as the country approaches another critical electoral season. She stressed that journalists are custodians of truth and watchdogs of society, with a heavier responsibility in an age where misinformation spreads rapidly online. She called on the media to verify facts, present balanced reporting, and uphold ethical standards.
Ike commended Elumelu for delivering the keynote lecture and acknowledged the presence of Niger State Governor Umar Bago, former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, and NUJ National President Alhassan Yahya. She said the awards presented at the event were meant to honor professionalism, courage and integrity, and urged journalists to renew their resolve to defend democracy through responsible reporting.(Daily News Power)
