The Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, FCT Council, has raised concerns over the growing spread of fake news and disinformation ahead of the 2027 general elections, calling on journalists to uphold professionalism and ethical reporting.
The warning came during the 2026 NUJ Press Week Lecture and Awards Ceremony held at the Transcorp Hilton Hotel, Abuja, with the theme: “2027 Elections: Defending Nigeria’s Democracy in the Era of Disinformation.”
The event attracted top media professionals, security chiefs, politicians, diplomats, civil society groups and government officials who stressed the need to protect Nigeria’s democracy through credible journalism.
Among dignitaries at the event were former Inspector-General of Police, Sir Mike Okiro; former Minority Leader of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Ndudi Elumelu; and Major General Samaila Mohammed Uba, who represented the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede.
Also present were representatives of the Inspector-General of Police IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu led by Deputy Inspector-General of Police, DIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, senior military officers, members of the diplomatic corps and media executives.
Speaking after being decorated as Grand Patron of the NUJ FCT Council, Sir Mike Okiro said journalists must remain committed to truth, fairness and national interest, warning that false information could threaten democratic stability.
Delivering the keynote address, Ndudi Elumelu described disinformation as a major danger to democratic institutions, stressing that the credibility of information remains critical to public trust and national unity.
Representing the Chief of Defence Staff, Major General Samaila Mohammed Uba said the Armed Forces value the media as partners in national cohesion but cautioned that inaccurate and unverified reports could undermine security operations.
DIG Kenechukwu Onwuemelie, representing the Inspector-General of Police, assured continued collaboration between the police and the media in strengthening public communication and national security.
Chairman of the NUJ FCT Council, Comrade Grace Ike, reaffirmed the union’s commitment to press freedom, ethical journalism and improved welfare for journalists across the country.
The event also featured the unveiling of the NUJ FCT Council magazine, The Capital Voice, alongside awards presented to distinguished individuals for their contributions to media development and public service.(Circular News)
