The lawmaker representing Omala State Constituency in the Kogi State House of Assembly, Hon. Umar Yahaya, popularly known as "Connect," has tasked Nigerian journalists to uphold professional standards and serve as steadfast defenders of democratic institutions.
Speaking as a guest speaker during the 2026 Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Week in Lokoja, the state capital, the state legislator cautioned media practitioners against falling prey to the proliferation of artificial intelligence (AI)-generated fake news, deepfakes, and sensationalist reporting.
Yahaya emphasized that in an evolving media landscape where digital technologies can instantly fabricate convincing falsehoods, rigorous verification and editorial integrity remain the media's most vital tools.
Addressing the gathering of media executives, veteran correspondents, and union representatives, the lawmaker noted that the constitutional mandate assigned to the press under Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution carries profound civic responsibility.
He asserted that the duty to hold government officials accountable must never be compromised by political bias, haste, or unverified social media narratives:
He commended journalists in Kogi State for their role in highlighting community issues, acknowledging that media reporting had directly influenced several legislative interventions and constituency projects in Omala State Constituency.
Highlighting the relationship between elected officials and the press, Hon. Yahaya urged public institutions and government agencies at all levels to view the media as partners in development rather than adversaries.
He called on government leaders to ensure the safety, operational freedom, and adequate funding of press institutions, emphasizing that a vibrant, protected media environment remains an essential pillar for sustainable governance and democratic stability across Nigeria.