Edet Ikotiden
Global Renaissance, a leading international advocacy organization dedicated to the promotion of democratic governance, social accountability, and media freedom, has issued a strong condemnation of what it describes as growing media repression and a coordinated campaign of misinformation targeted at the Akwa Ibom Government.
In a detailed statement signed by the president Comrade Edet ikotidem and Secretary Comrade Victor Charles released to journalists, the organisation expressed deep concern over the “alarming pattern of sensational, distorted, and politically-motivated publications” circulating across both mainstream and online media channels in recent weeks.
Group Condemns Media Repression
According to Global Renaissance, such actions threaten not only the integrity of the media profession but also the stability of governance structures and public trust in democratic institutions.
The group noted that the increasing weaponisation of information—through deliberate falsehoods, fabricated allegations, and provocative narratives—has created an atmosphere of hostility around the state government.
This, they warned, is capable of fuelling tension, inciting public distrust, and undermining the efforts of the government to deliver development to the people of Akwa Ibom.
“Global Renaissance is deeply troubled by the rising wave of media repression and the calculated attempt by certain interests to malign and discredit the Akwa Ibom State Government. Such acts represent a dangerous deviation from ethical journalism and threaten the peace and progress of the state.”
The organisation stressed that while the media plays a critical role in democratic governance, the misuse of journalistic platforms for political blackmail, character assassination, and the spread of unverified claims is unacceptable and contrary to global media ethics.
Global Renaissance applauded the Akwa Ibom State Government for what it described as remarkable maturity and restraint in the face of provocative attacks.
The group urged the government to remain steadfast in its commitment to transparency, accountability, and open communication with citizens, noting that responsible engagement is the hallmark of true democratic leadership.
“We commend the Akwa Ibom State Government for refusing to be drawn into unnecessary confrontations despite relentless attacks. This posture reflects a government focused on service delivery rather than political distractions,” the group said.
The organisation emphasised that journalism must remain a tool for truth, enlightenment, and public accountability—not a mechanism for fueling division, inciting conflict, or serving the interests of a few.
It therefore called on editors, reporters, bloggers, and media proprietors to recommit themselves to the highest standards of professionalism, especially in an era where misinformation spreads rapidly and can have grave consequences.
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“Media organisations must resist attempts by political actors to use their platforms for malicious campaigns. Ethical journalism is a non-negotiable pillar of democracy, and any compromise endangers the entire democratic framework.”
The organisation further urged relevant regulatory agencies and professional associations—including the Nigerian Press Council (NPC), Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON), and the Guild of Editors—to intensify efforts toward sanitising the media environment.
Global Renaissance advocated the following immediate actions:
Strengthened monitoring of unethical publications
Enforcement of penalties for deliberate misinformation
Protection of credible journalists from political pressure
Promotion of fact-checking and responsible investigative reporting
Continuous ethics training for media professionals
“Regulatory bodies must rise to the occasion. The media space cannot be left in the hands of unregulated actors whose actions could destabilise the peace and progress of states and communities,” the organisation warned.
Reaffirming its long-standing commitment to good governance and media freedom, Global Renaissance emphasised that democracy thrives only when truth, accountability, and constructive communication are upheld.
It warned that allowing prolonged attacks on public institutions through manipulated narratives could weaken democratic foundations and create long-term instability.
“A healthy democracy is built on shared responsibility—government must lead with transparency, the media must report with integrity, and citizens must engage with discernment. Global Renaissance remains committed to defending these values in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria, and across the African region.”
With this firm stance, Global Renaissance joins a growing number of civil society organisations calling for more responsible journalism and more constructive engagement between the media, government, and the general public.
