The Ondo State Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to press freedom, professionalism, and transparency, urging journalists in the state not to relent in interrogating government policies and holding public officials accountable.
Governor Aiyedatiwa gave the charge on Saturday while addressing journalists and media executives during a media interface and state dinner held at the Government House Banquet Hall, Akure, a gathering that drew media stakeholders from across Ondo State.
Speaking at the event, the Governor stressed that the role of the press remains central to democratic governance, noting that a vibrant, professional, and objective media is essential for accountability and good governance.
“Do not stop interrogating government policies. Do not stop asking questions or holding us accountable,” the Governor told media practitioners, adding that his administration has no intention of compromising journalistic independence.
He clarified that the engagement and support extended to the media were not designed to curry favour or weaken professional ethics, but to strengthen institutional collaboration anchored on mutual respect and responsibility.
The Governor also used the occasion to address longstanding institutional challenges confronting the media sector.
He announced the settlement of inherited debts owed to some electronic media organisations and approved the provision of a brand-new bus to ease mobility and operational challenges faced by state correspondents.
Requests presented by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), including issues relating to representation and career progression within the civil service, were also favourably considered, a development widely applauded by stakeholders at the meeting.
Our correspondent reports that the interaction went beyond routine government–media engagement, describing it as a deliberate affirmation of the administration’s respect for professionalism, objectivity, and responsible journalism.
Meanwhile, speakers at the event commended the performance of the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ebenezer Adeniyan, describing him as professional, responsive, and effective in managing government communication.
Media leaders unanimously acknowledged Mr. Adeniyan’s role in strengthening the interface between the government and the public, as well as his readiness to engage in public discourse across broadcast platforms.
Under his leadership, the Office of the Chief Press Secretary has been repositioned as a credible hub of public communication, driven by facts, clarity, and institutional loyalty.
His background as a seasoned journalist and publisher was also cited as a key factor in the improved quality and integrity of government messaging.
In a statement following the event, the All Progressives Congress (APC), Ondo State Chapter, commended Governor Aiyedatiwa for the purposeful engagement, reiterating that the administration remains committed to open governance, press freedom, and professional engagement with all stakeholders.
The party expressed confidence that the growing synergy between the government and the media would further strengthen democracy and good governance in Ondo State.
