Oyo CAN Hosts NACJ Members, Stresses Importance of Upholding Ethical Journalism

The Chairman of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Oyo State Chapter, Rev. Elisha Kayode Ogundiya, has admonished Christian journalists in the state to uphold truth, fairness and professional integrity in the discharge of their duties.

He made the remarks when the leadership of the Nigeria Association of Christian Journalists (NACJ), Oyo State Chapter, led by Comrade Lekan Sobo Sobowale, paid him a courtesy visit in his office alongside other members of the association.

A statement issued by the NACJ Public Relations Officer, Comrade Adeola Badru, quoted the CAN chairman as saying that journalists are critical stakeholders in nation-building whose reports shape public opinion and influence policy direction.

According to him, journalists must remain courageous, objective, and guided by ethical standards, especially when reporting issues that concern faith, governance and human rights.

Rev. Ogundiya noted that Christian journalists, in particular, have a dual responsibility to reflect the values of their faith while maintaining the highest standards of professional journalism.

He recalled his experience as CAN chairman in Osun State during the administration of Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, when the introduction of compulsory hijab wearing and a uniform dress code for all public schools generated widespread controversy and public outcry across the state.

The CAN chairman explained that the policy sparked debates over religious freedom and constitutional rights, prompting strong reactions from various stakeholders.

He extolled the role played by Christian journalists and members of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA) during the period, noting that their intervention helped to amplify concerns and ensured that due process and the rule of law were followed.

“Christian journalists stood firm in defence of truth and fairness at a time when emotions were high. Their reports gave voice to the concerns of many citizens,” he said.

“We must never underestimate the power of responsible journalism in safeguarding democracy and protecting fundamental human rights.”

Ogundiya stressed that the media remained a vital instrument for promoting peaceful coexistence in a multi-religious society.

He, however, charged Christian journalists to always verify facts before publication, avoid sensationalism, and resist any attempt to compromise their professional ethics.

“You must be thorough, balanced and fearless. Do not allow bias or external pressure to distort the truth,” he said.

“Let your reports promote unity, justice and understanding, rather than division. When you stand for truth, you stand for God and for the nation,” he added.

Earlier in his remarks, the NACJ chairman in the state, Comrade Lekan Sobowale, congratulated Rev. Ogundiya on his emergence as CAN chairman in Oyo State and pledged the association’s support for the Christian body.

He commended CAN’s leadership for its commitment to defending the rights and interests of Christians, assuring that NACJ members would continue to uphold professionalism in their reportage.

Sobowale called for renewed synergy between the association and CAN, adding that closer collaboration would strengthen advocacy efforts and enhance effective communication within the Christian community.

“We believe that a strong partnership between CAN and NACJ will foster better information dissemination and ensure that the voice of the Church is accurately represented in the public space,” he said.

In her vote of thanks, the Treasurer of NACJ, Comrade Mosun Akinola, appreciated the CAN chairman for receiving the delegation and for his words of encouragement.

She reaffirmed the association’s commitment to responsible journalism and pledged continued cooperation with CAN in advancing shared values and promoting peaceful coexistence in the state.