Rev. Mathew Odoh Urges Journalists to Uphold Truth and Ethics, Compares Them to Biblical Moses

 Rev. Mathew Odoh of the United Evangelical Church (UEC) in Lokoja has drawn a parallel between journalists and the biblical figure Moses, highlighting their role as intermediaries between the public and the government. Speaking at a church service organized as part of the 2024 Press Week for the Kogi State chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Rev. Odoh emphasized the importance of truth and ethical conduct in journalism.

During his sermon, Rev. Odoh underscored the critical role journalists play in society, likening them to Moses, who served as a bridge between God and the Israelites. He urged journalists to commit themselves to truth and the highest ethical standards in their profession.

"Journalists are like middlemen. You are like the Biblical Moses. You hear from the people and convey their cries to the government. You stand between the government and the people. Accurately report what the government is saying and also communicate our concerns and problems to them," Rev. Odoh stated.

Highlighting the current struggles of Nigerians, he continued, "Presently, as citizens, we are hungry. We need light. The cost of electricity is too high. We need jobs for our children. Let the government address economic issues so we can have money in our pockets. Nigerians are suffering."

Rev. Odoh also prayed for divine strength for President Ahmed Bola Tinubu, urging the government to address the high cost of living and other challenges facing the nation. "There is much maladministration. We are not smiling. Let the government at all levels do what is necessary. We beg you, as journalists, to tell the government that Nigerians are not smiling—they need a breath of fresh air."

He acknowledged the risks associated with the journalism profession but expressed optimism that professionalism and balanced reporting would ensure journalists' safety. Rev. Odoh praised Kogi journalists for their professionalism and unbiased reporting, noting that a thriving democracy and better society depend on journalists operating in an enabling environment.

Earlier, Comrade Oluwasegun Oyenibi, Secretary of the NUJ Kogi State chapter, mentioned that the church service was part of the 2024 Press Week activities. The event was aimed at thanking God for preserving journalists and seeking His continued protection for members.