By Our Correspondent
National News – Pastor Caleb Ajagba, Chief of Staff to Abia State Governor Alex Otti, has urged journalists in Abia State to uphold objectivity in their reportage while strengthening press freedom during a meeting with the Correspondents’ Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Umuahia on Wednesday, April 29, 2026.
He said the government will not suppress the truth and encouraged the media to hold leadership accountable across governance, business, and communities.
Ajagba emphasized that press freedom is sacrosanct under the Otti administration, noting that journalists play a vital role in exposing societal issues and improving governance outcomes.
He also highlighted that ongoing development in Abia State reflects deliberate reforms aimed at making the state a model for others in Nigeria.
Speaking on governance impact, he noted an increase in population inflow into Abia State, linking it to rising property demand and higher rent prices as evidence of economic activity.
Ajagba stressed that development comes with costs but must remain transparent, while urging continuous media oversight to sustain accountability and public trust.
NUJ Correspondents’ Chapel leadership reaffirmed journalists’ commitment to responsible reporting and constitutional accountability roles, urging government to sustain development momentum for improved welfare of citizens in Abia State.
Ajagba’s remarks were delivered as part of efforts to strengthen collaboration between the state government and the media, ensuring accurate dissemination of information and promotion of democratic accountability in Abia State.
Journalists at the event welcomed the call for objectivity, with NUJ representatives acknowledging improvements in governance while pledging to continue critical reporting on public sector performance in Umuahia and across Nigeria.
Overall, the interaction reinforced the importance of transparent governance and responsible journalism in Nigeria’s evolving democratic space.
Both government and media stakeholders expressed optimism that sustained cooperation will accelerate development and strengthen public trust in Abia State leadership.
