Benue Justice Commissioner urges journalists to shun fake news

The Benue State Commissioner for Justice, Prof Timothy Ornguga, has charged journalists to desist from spreading fake news and avoid being used by politicians through financial inducement.

He gave the advice on Friday during a chat with journalists in Makurdi.

Prof Ornguga lamented that people had developed a habit of telling lies and peddling fake news, especially against the government and its appointees, including twisting court judgments.

He said peddling fake news by social media practitioners was unacceptable and that it was the responsibility of professional journalists to counter falsehood by telling members of the public the truth.

Prof Ornguga charged journalists to always cross-check information by visiting ministries and relevant agencies to obtain the correct facts before publishing, stressing that truthful reportage remained vital to public enlightenment.

He expressed appreciation to journalists in the state, noting that the role of the Ministry of Justice was to ensure that the people of Benue State, irrespective of political party, religion or business inclination, got justice.