Media professionals caution against fake news 

Media professionals have warned novice journalists against publishing unverified stories, noting that spreading fake news could lead to serious legal action.

The remarks were made to reporters in Abuja on Monday during events marking the 100th anniversary of the Daily Times Newspaper.

They said that no media outlet can endure political shifts, economic crises, or technological changes without a firm commitment to journalistic ethics.

Tony Amokeodo, former spokesperson for former Economic and Financial Crimes Commission Chairman Ibrahim Magu, urged reporters to verify their information from primary sources rather than secondary ones.

“Some journalists rely on secondary sources and not primary sources. Any journalist that wants to excel must avoid beer‑parlor rumours and stick to facts. Get your facts from your primary source,” he said.

Amokeodo added that some “reporters are not journalists,” lamenting the spread of misinformation on online platforms where “anything goes.”

He attributed the alleged attacks on journalists and media houses by authorities to a lack of commitment to journalistic ethics.

Similarly, Charles Ozoemena, Managing Editor of the Daily Times, warned that fake news could attract serious litigation, urging journalists to verify content thoroughly.

“If you are not sure of the fact, don’t go there. A lot of journalists just share whatever breaking news they see online. You are sharing a news that you don’t know the source and you are not even sure of it,” he said.

“You must confirm the story yourself before sharing; otherwise, you are exposing yourself to serious litigation,” Ozoemena added.

“Instead of confirming stories, you share whatever press releases you see—that is lazy journalism, as far as I am concerned.”

Also speaking, Fidelis Anosike, founder of Folio Media Group and Publisher of the Daily Times, called for consistency in the profession, stating that perfection can only be achieved through repeated effort.

He said, “The next ten years of the profession will be defined by real journalists. If you are a real journalist, you should be able to write, background your stories, do research and structure your content. The profession is not for the faint‑hearted.”

“You can’t be a journalist, then after five years, you go and do real estate, then after another five years you return, no. To be a perfectionist in whatever you are doing, you have to do it repeatedly over time.”

Mr. Anosike earlier described the centenary celebration of the Daily Times as a defining moment not only for the organization but also for Nigerian journalism.