The Ogun-East Independent Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has inaugurated a task force to address the growing menace of fake journalists and the spread of misinformation within its jurisdiction.

The NUJ Ogun-East Task Force initiative aligns with the directive of the State Council of the NUJ, issued during the inauguration of the Chapel’s executive members.

The task force will be led by Comrade Dairo Johnson, Treasurer of the Chapel, alongside Comrade Ademola Ogunlana, Assistant Secretary and Damilare Majekodunmi.

The growing trend of fake news and unverified reports often propagated through social media by bloggers and unprofessional content creators who parade themselves as journalists not only has unquantifiable consequences on journalism but also erodes public trust in the media. This, in turn, undermines democracy, promotes social unrest, triggers economic sabotage, fuels political conflicts, and negatively impacts society at large.

The Chapel expressed concern over the increasing presence of untrained and fake journalists presenting themselves as media aides to political officeholders and some private organizations, thereby undermining the credibility of the profession.

As part of its commitment to promoting ethical journalism, the Ogun-East Independent Chapel has resolved to intensify efforts to expose quacks and safeguard the integrity of the profession in the region.

The Chapel further urged government establishments, corporate organizations, reputable individuals, private institutions, credible associations and unions, and other members of the public to cooperate with the NUJ by engaging only accredited journalists for media coverage.

Interested individuals and organizations are encouraged to contact the Chapel’s Secretary for proper verification and registration of journalists at their events.

As part of its strategy, the NUJ Ogun-East Task Force, alongside the Executive members, will embark on familiarisation visits to the Police Area Commands in Sagamu and Ijebu-Ode to seek collaboration and support in curbing fake journalism and misinformation in the Ijebu and Remo axis.

In recognition of longstanding contributions to the profession, the Chapel has also inaugurated a Board of Elders made up of highly respected veteran journalists. 

They include:

Mr. Victor Sokoya;

Editor, Gateway Echo Newspaper (Ijebu)

Mr. Moses Oladipo; Editor, National Globe Magazine (Ijebu)

Dr. Remi Wat Beyioku; Editor, Western Post Newspaper (Remo)

Baaroyin Dayo Rufai – Editor, Gateway Times & Ijebu NewsXtra Magazines (Ijebu)

Alhaji Emilola Gazal – Editor, Roots Magazine

Comrade Femi Adeleye – Editor, CityWatch Magazine

The NUJ Ogun-East Independent Chapel calls on the general public to support its mission of upholding professionalism and combating the spread of fake journalists across the region, in the overall interest of society.

E-Signed

Comrade Oluseun Oduneye

Chairman, NUJ Ogun-East Independent Chapel

Comrade Funmilayo Suleodu Adewoju

Secretary, NUJ Ogun-East Independent Chapel