By Amos Aar
CHIEF Solomon Iorpev, the Technical Adviser to Governor Hyacinth Alia on Media, Publicity, and Strategic Communication, has called on journalists in Benue State to uphold the ethics of investigative and objective journalism.
He made this appeal at an interactive session with journalists who paid him a courtesy visit at his office last Tuesday, February 18, 2025.
Addressing the journalists, Iorpev emphasised the importance of fact-based reporting, warning against exaggerated figures and unverified claims that could incite unrest and mislead the public.
“Two people being killed is terrible, but why report that twenty people were killed when it is not true? What exactly is the purpose of such misinformation? Are we trying to cause havoc or discredit someone’s efforts?” Iorpev questioned, urging journalists to verify their sources before publishing any report.
The media aide criticised the growing trend of speculative journalism, where reports are crafted based on rumours rather than first-hand investigations. He challenged reporters to go beyond city-based assessments and visit conflict-affected areas like Kwande, Katsina-Ala, and Gwer West to gather accurate information.
“Why are you conducting investigations from town instead of visiting the actual sites? If there are deaths, can we identify the bodies and speak to their families? Journalism is about truth, not hearsay,” he insisted.
Iorpev also lamented how narratives surrounding local conflicts were often misrepresented to fuel political and ethnic tensions. He cited instances where land disputes between brothers were falsely attributed to Fulani attacks, distorting the reality of the situation.
He further defended Governor Hyacinth Alia’s administration, stating that significant progress had been made in restoring security, particularly in areas previously affected by displacement.
He noted that out of the eight displaced council wards in Gwer West, five had returned home since Governor Alia took office, an achievement that he said should be acknowledged.
“This administration has made security a priority. Yet, some people want to paint the governor in a bad light. He is not a magician, but he is working hard. Salaries are being paid, and everywhere you go is a construction site. Why not report on these developments?” Iorpev queried.
The media aide urged journalists to take pride in their profession by building credibility through factual and balanced reporting rather than seeking financial favours.
He emphasised that the role of the press is to hold leaders accountable while also giving credit where it is due.
“Lazy journalism, where people expect the government to give them money, is unacceptable. If you want to make money, go into business.
“If you want to be a journalist, build a name for yourself through credibility and objectivity,” he admonished.
Iorpev further urged journalists to highlight positive transformations in the state rather than focus solely on negative narratives. He insisted that while challenges remain, the progress under Governor Alia should not be ignored.
