NUJ FCT Urges Journalists To Fact-Check, Shun Inflammatory Reporting Ahead Of 2027 Elections
The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), FCT Council, has urged journalists to put professional ethics and fact-checking at the heart of their coverage ahead of the 2027 general elections, warning against reports capable of inflaming tensions or misleading the public.
The call formed part of resolutions reached at the Union’s October 2026 Congress in Abuja, where journalists also raised concerns about professional disputes, members’ welfare, youth participation and the safety of National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members.
The Congress stressed that political information must be properly verified before publication, with all relevant parties given a fair opportunity to respond to allegations.
It also urged members to comply with the NUJ Code of Ethics and use the Council’s Ethics and Disciplinary Committee to resolve professional disputes before resorting to security agencies or other external institutions.
On journalists’ welfare, Congress commended the FCT Council leadership, under Comrade Grace Ike, particularly its intervention on health insurance.
Members said the initiative was already benefiting journalists and urged the Council to sustain efforts aimed at improving their welfare.
The Congress also called for greater involvement of younger journalists in Union activities, recommending structured mentorship programmes through which experienced practitioners can pass on professional skills and ethical values to the next generation.
On the state of the nation, Congress raised concerns over the regulation and certification of locally manufactured products, calling for better coordination among regulatory agencies, particularly the Standards Organisation of Nigeria (SON), while urging authorities to protect consumers without unduly hindering legitimate Nigerian manufacturers.
The journalists further called for stronger security measures to protect NYSC members, following reported attacks involving corps members travelling to orientation camps.
As the country prepares for the 2027 elections, Congress urged journalists, political actors and security agencies to work towards a peaceful electoral environment.
It cautioned members against cyberbullying, inflammatory publications and irresponsible use of social media, stressing that credible journalism remains essential to helping citizens make informed electoral choices.
Congress reaffirmed the NUJ FCT Council’s commitment to press freedom, journalists’ welfare, professional ethics and the public interest.
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