The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress, Prof. Nentawe Yilwatda, has encouraged Nigerian journalists to practise constructive criticism and ensure leaders are held accountable as a way to promote democracy, peace, justice, and national development.
Yilwatda — represented by the Benue State APC Chairman, Benjamin Omale — made this appeal in Makurdi, the state capital, on Thursday while speaking as a guest at the 2025 Press Week/Public Lecture and Awards Ceremony organised by the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Benue State Council.
The event centred on the theme, “Strengthening the Media for Credible Reporting and Democratic Accountability.”
He emphasised that democracy suffers when journalism becomes partisan, sensational, or based on unverified information, noting that media professionals must employ their platforms to build the nation rather than fracture it.
“Government and political parties, including our own APC, must accept criticism. It is a vital part of democracy.
But criticism must be rooted in facts, not propaganda.
“Nigeria needs journalists who verify before publishing, prioritise national unity above political rivalry, keep power accountable without becoming political actors, and use the pen to heal society, not divide it. When the press loses objectivity, the nation loses direction,” he said.
He pointed out that the strength of democracy depends on the quality of information available to citizens, explaining that an active, ethical, and independent media ensures the public is well-informed, leaders remain accountable, development issues are brought to light, and national conversations remain constructive.
Yilwatda also affirmed that the APC-led Federal Government remains dedicated to improving the economy, enhancing security, and fostering inclusive national development to reinforce democracy in Nigeria.
The call for greater media accountability comes amid increasing threats to press freedom in the country.
Recent reports have documented repeated incidents of harassment, intimidation, and arrests of journalists, often connected to the misuse of laws like the Cybercrimes Act and actions by security agencies.
Media experts have consistently cautioned that shrinking civic space, escalating attacks on journalists, and ongoing unethical practices weaken the press’s role as a democratic watchdog.
Editorials and public discussions have continued to emphasise that credible, fact-based journalism is essential for ensuring leaders are held accountable and for strengthening public confidence.
In this context, renewed appeals for constructive criticism, ethical reporting, and strong democratic oversight by the media remain highly significant across the nation.
