The Osun State Governor, Mr Gboyega Oyetola, has described the media as a critical stakeholder in any democratic setting, saying that the profession should be an ally of all responsible governments.
He added that going by the statutory mandate of the press, which centers on holding government accountable on behalf of the people, every serious government should regard the media as an ally with healthy relationships.
The governor made this known at the Dinner /Award night organised by Nigeria Union of journalists (NUJ) Osun Council on Thursday, as part of the activities marking it’s 2019 Press Week.
He also commended journalists in the state for balancing their reports always, especially during and after the 2018 gubernatorial election.
Oyetola, however, solicited further cooperation between his government and members of the fourth estate of the realm, as he implored them to continue to observe the ethics of their profession to build a better society.
He said: “By its constitutional role as the body charged with holding government accountable on behalf of the people, the media is a friend of good governance. All responsible governments should, therefore, regard it as an ally and relate with it as such.
“It is heartening that this union annually holds it’s Week to strengthening its relationship among its members and with its stakeholders. It is particularly instructive that it interrogates topical issues as part of its responsibility to the people and the polity on such occasions.
“I commend the Union for it’s service to Osun State and the nation. I also thank the Union, it’s members across the country and its headquarters in Abuja for living up to their bidding as the watchdog of the society from the struggle for independence to date.
“I would also like to place on record, the support you gave to me before, during and after the election that brought me into office as Governor. Of no mean recognition is the balanced reportage of the modest efforts of our administration to offer a good life to the people and to deliver qualitative and equitable services in all sectors in the past months.
“I solicit for further cooperation so that we can, together, offer good governance to the people. I urge you to continue to observe the ethics of your profession in the discharge of your statutory duties. Our doors are always open to you to cross-check facts and offer balanced reportage of the activities of the government. “
