Criticism should not be abusive, Ogun tells bloggers, content creators

The Special Adviser on Information and Strategy to Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, Kayode Akinmade, has called on media practitioners to adhere strictly to professional ethics and resist attempts to be influenced by politics or pecuniary gains.

Akinmade emphasised that the hallmark of a professional media practitioner is responsibility, patriotism and altruism while effectively carrying out the constitutional watchdog role.

The governor’s aide stated this in a statement made available to our correspondent on Sunday while hosting Gateway Bloggers, comprising online publishers and content creators.

He described the media as playing a crucial role in promoting good governance and strengthening democratic ideals.

Akinmade, however, said such roles must be carried out within the ambit of the law and with a strong sense of responsibility.

He explained, “As bloggers and content creators in our social engagement, we must be responsible.

“I am not saying you should avoid pointing out what is wrong. On the contrary, if we are wrong, we are quick to admit it and make corrections. We are open to constructive criticism—criticism that is fair, factual and aimed at improvement.

However, criticism should not be reckless or abusive. There are many appropriate channels through which concerns can be raised and government officials engaged.

“Leadership should not be reduced to insults or personal attacks, especially under the guise of religion or politics. There is a clear difference between responsible civic engagement and inflammatory conduct.

“We must all play our roles responsibly—government, media, stakeholders and citizens—so that together we can build a stronger, more prosperous Ogun State.”

Akinmade described the Abiodun administration as one that has strategically grown the economy and expanded the frontiers of economic prosperity in the state.

He said, “The government of Governor Abiodun is strengthening local GDP, and once ongoing plans come fully into effect, with the reactivation of the Olokola Seaport, the state is set to become an oil-producing state.

“You can imagine the multiplier effect this will have on the economy—job creation, new businesses, increased revenue and overall growth across sectors.

“This is a journey we are taking together, and we must document and preserve this history. That is why partnership with the media is essential.”

Speaking earlier, the Coordinator of Gateway Bloggers, Olamide David, said bloggers exist to open up the state to the world and showcase its beauty, progress and potential beyond stereotypes and misinformation.

David said, “We are also here to prove that not all bloggers are bad. Many of us are responsible, professional and committed to ethical storytelling that supports development rather than undermines it.”

He added that the association was seeking stronger collaboration with the state government’s media office.

David said, “We believe that by working together—sharing verified information, promoting government initiatives and amplifying positive narratives—we can project Ogun State accurately, credibly and globally.

“We see this meeting as the beginning of a productive partnership built on trust, transparency and shared goals for the growth of Ogun State.”