From Umar Danladi Ado, Sokoto
The Sokoto State Government has stated that it remained committed to supporting initiatives that promote professionalism, ethical journalism, and responsible dissemination of information.
The State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Alhaji Bello Sambo Danchadi, gave the assurance while declaring open a one-day workshop organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) aimed at strengthening the capacity of journalists in accurate judicial reporting and responsible news writing.
The commissioner commended the leadership of the NUJ Sokoto State Council for organising the timely and highly relevant workshop.
“The choice of the theme, ‘Accurate Court Reporting: A Pillar of Justice and Public Trust,’ reflects the vital role the media plays in safeguarding justice, promoting accountability, and sustaining democracy,” he said
He noted that the judiciary remains one of the most sensitive and critical institutions in any democratic society, as court proceedings and judicial pronouncements influence governance and affect the lives of citizens.
According to him, reporting judicial matters requires professionalism, accuracy, fairness, and a deep understanding of legal processes.
“Inaccurate or sensational reporting can mislead the public, damage reputations, undermine confidence in the justice system, and, in some cases, interfere with the course of justice,” Danchadi said.
He stressed that journalists covering judicial activities must uphold the highest ethical standards by ensuring balance, objectivity, and factual accuracy in their reports.
“As practitioners entrusted with informing the public, journalists must always remember that credibility is the foundation of journalism.
“Public trust in the media is built when reports are verified, responsible, and free from bias or misinformation,” he added.
Danchadi described the workshop as an important opportunity for media professionals to deepen their knowledge of judicial reporting, understand legal terminologies and court procedures, and sharpen their skills in responsible news writing.
“I strongly believe that the knowledge gained here will contribute immensely towards improving the quality of reportage in our state and beyond,” he said.
He further stated that the Sokoto State Government under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Aliyu remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote professionalism, ethical journalism, and responsible dissemination of information.
“We recognise the media as strategic partners in development, peacebuilding, and democratic governance.
“It is on record that the Ahmed Aliyu administration has undertaken several training programmes for practising journalists and social media practitioners in the state, and more of such trainings are in the pipeline,” he said.
The commissioner urged participants to actively engage during the sessions, ask questions, share experiences, and utilise the opportunity to enhance their professional competence.
He also appreciated the organisers, resource persons, and stakeholders who contributed to the success of the workshop, and encouraged the NUJ to sustain such capacity-building programmes for journalists across various beats.
In his remarks, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Sokoto State Council, Comrade Usman Mohammed Binji, described the workshop as a strategic effort aimed at strengthening the capacity of journalists in judicial reporting and promoting responsible news writing.
“Judicial reporting is one of the most sensitive areas of journalism. It requires accuracy, fairness, balance, patience, and a high level of ethical responsibility.”
“The way journalists report court proceedings directly influences public understanding of the justice system and shapes public trust in both the judiciary and the media,” he stated.
According to him, the theme of the workshop serves as a reminder that democracy and justice can only thrive when information reaching the public is factual, balanced, and professionally presented.
“In an era where misinformation spreads rapidly and legal matters are often misunderstood, journalists must remain committed to truth, responsibility, and ethical standards,” Binji said.
He explained that the workshop was designed to equip participants with practical knowledge and a deeper understanding of judicial processes, legal boundaries, ethical considerations, and responsible news writing.
Participants, he added, would also gain insight into the proper use of court documents, interpretation of legal proceedings, and the role of journalists in protecting the integrity of the justice system.
Binji said the resource persons invited possessed valuable experience in both journalism and the legal sector, and urged participants to engage actively and take full advantage of the opportunity.
He thanked the Sokoto State Government under the leadership of Governor Ahmed Aliyu for its support to the NUJ Sokoto State Council, and appreciated all stakeholders and partners who supported the initiative.
“Their support demonstrates a shared commitment to strengthening journalism and promoting public trust through accurate and responsible reporting,” he said.
“As we begin this workshop, let us reflect on the vital role we play as journalists. Our reports should educate and enlighten the public, not create confusion.
“They should promote justice, fairness, and accountability while upholding the ethics and integrity of our profession,” he added.