Judiciary journalists urged to ensure accurate court reporting ahead of 2027

The newly elected Chairman of the National Association of Judiciary Correspondents (NAJUC), Olakunle Olubunmi Olasanmi, has urged judiciary journalists across Nigeria to uphold objectivity, accuracy and professionalism in reporting court proceedings, particularly as the 2027 general election approaches.

Olasanmi said court reporting is a highly sensitive area of journalism that demands careful, factual and balanced coverage to prevent the spread of misinformation.

He noted that accurate reporting would help curb fake news and prevent the deliberate misrepresentation of court judgments and pronouncements by politicians and other vested interests.

The NAJUC chairman made the remarks over the weekend in Abuja shortly after receiving the mantle of leadership from the immediate past chairman, Kayode Lawal of Daily Post Media, following the inauguration of the association’s newly elected executive committee.

He pledged that the new leadership would collaborate with key stakeholders in the judiciary and security agencies to address the activities of purveyors of fake news and unaccredited journalists covering the courts.

Olasanmi also promised that the new executive would work diligently to leave a lasting legacy before the end of its tenure.

As part of efforts to strengthen the association, he announced the establishment of a three-member Standing Committee comprising Joseph Kadiri, Sunday Benjamin Ejike and Garry Ochigbo to assist the executive whenever necessary.

He further disclosed that members would soon reconvene in congress to consider recommendations by the Constitution Review Committee and deliberate on proposed amendments to the association’s constitution.

According to him, while constitutional amendments are necessary, any changes must be approved collectively by members during congress.

The chairman thanked members for their confidence and support, promising not to disappoint them.

He also commended the immediate past leadership for its achievements and appreciated the Electoral Committee, led by Elder Andrew Orolua, for conducting a peaceful and credible election.

Earlier, the immediate past chairman, Kayode Lawal, expressed gratitude to members for their support throughout his six-year tenure, highlighting achievements in unity, welfare, capacity building and the successful organisation of six national conferences in collaboration with the National Judicial Institute (NJI).

Lawal urged members to extend the same level of cooperation to the new leadership, stressing that effective leadership depends on the support of committed followership.

Chairman of the 2026 Election Committee, Elder Andrew Orolua, congratulated the new executive and commended all contestants for conducting issue-based campaigns.

He also urged members to pay their dues promptly, noting that the association’s ability to achieve its objectives depends largely on members fulfilling their financial obligations.

The newly inaugurated executive committee comprises Olakunle Olubunmi Olasanmi as Chairman, Emmanuella Ekele as Vice Chairman, Alexander Enumah as General Secretary, Godfrey Eshiemoghe as Assistant Secretary, Wandoo Sombo as Treasurer, Austin Okezie as Financial Secretary, Oluwafemi Kuku as Welfare Officer and Garry Ochigbo as Provost.