The role of the media in promoting credible elections, public trust and democratic accountability will come under scrutiny at the 2026 Annual Conference and 6th Lecture Series of the Delta Online Publishers Forum.
The conference, scheduled for October 21 at David’s Event Centre, GRA, Asaba, will bring together media practitioners, government officials, political leaders, lawmakers, security personnel, academics and business leaders.
The event, which begins at 11am, is themed, “Democracy Under Pressure: Electoral Integrity, Security Challenges and Media Accountability in Nigeria.”
The Chairman of the Planning Committee, Dn. Chijioke Williams Ugbolue, and the Secretary, Comrade Josephine Omodior, said the theme was chosen to encourage discussions on the challenges facing Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
The organisers said particular attention would be paid to electoral credibility, security challenges and the responsibilities of journalists and online publishers in an increasingly complex information environment.
They said the media had an important role in informing citizens, promoting accountability and providing platforms for different views, but stressed the need for accuracy, professionalism and ethical journalism.
The conference will also examine misinformation, disinformation, political communication, public confidence in elections and the safety of journalists.
According to the organisers, representatives of the Army, Police, Department of State Services and other security agencies, as well as officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission, are expected to participate.
They said the involvement of stakeholders from different sectors would allow the issues to be examined from political, professional, academic, security and institutional perspectives.
The organisers disclosed that Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Francis Oborevwori, is expected to attend as the Special Guest of Honour, while a professional and politician is expected to chair the occasion.
A prominent academician has also been selected as the Distinguished Guest Lecturer for the 6th Annual Lecture.
The DOPF said the conference was part of its efforts to create platforms for discussions on media responsibility, democratic governance, security and development.
The forum said the 2026 edition would go beyond a gathering of online publishers by providing an opportunity for different stakeholders to discuss issues affecting Nigeria’s democratic development.
The organisers expressed confidence that the discussions would contribute to a better understanding of electoral processes, national security and the responsibilities of the media.
They also stressed the importance of responsible and accountable journalism in strengthening public trust and supporting peaceful democratic processes.
