Anambra HoS Urges Female Journalists to Uphold Ethical, Fact-Based Reporting

Anambra State Head of Service, Barrister Ngozi Anuli Iwouno, has urged female journalists to uphold the ethics of journalism by prioritising accuracy, verification, and responsible reporting in their professional duties.

Mrs Iwouno gave the advice on Wednesday while receiving members of the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Anambra State Chapter, during a courtesy visit to her office in Awka.

Responding to remarks by the Chairperson of NAWOJ in the state, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejirika, the Head of Service stressed that factual reporting must remain the foundation of journalism, warning that misinformation could damage reputations and mislead the public.

“You are obligated to verify all reports before publication. Misinformation can have grave consequences, including reputational harm. As journalists, your duty is to ensure that your reports are grounded in fact. I urge you to use your platform to promote the positive image of the state, rather than undermine it,” she said.

Mrs Iwouno also spoke on the social responsibility of journalists, noting that members of the profession should place humanity above sensationalism, especially during emergencies and public incidents.

Referring to the conduct of people at accident scenes, she said the immediate priority should be assisting victims rather than taking photographs or videos for publicity.

She described journalists as the conscience of society and urged female media professionals to use their platforms to address societal challenges through responsible and ethical reporting.

The Head of Service further expressed concern over declining discipline within the civil service, particularly absenteeism and misconduct among workers.

She recalled an unscheduled visit by the Governor of Anambra State, Chukwuma Soludo, during which several civil servants were reportedly absent from their duty posts around 10 a.m.

Mrs Iwouno described absenteeism without approval, falsification of official records, and the continued service of over-aged workers as unethical and, in some instances, criminal acts.

She urged female journalists, whom she described as “mothers and the conscience of society,” to promote discipline, accountability, and professionalism both within the media and across society.

Earlier, NAWOJ Chairperson, Comrade Tochukwu Ifejirika, congratulated Mrs Iwouno on her appointment as Head of Service and reaffirmed the association’s commitment to supporting efforts aimed at projecting the positive image of Anambra State.

She also appealed for support in granting Information Officers who are members of NAWOJ permission to participate in the association’s activities.