Olowu Of Kuta Urges Ethical Journalism As Osun Gears Up For 2026 Elections

As preparations intensify ahead of the 2026 governorship election in Osun State, the Olowu of Kuta, His Royal Majesty Oba Hammed Adekunle Makama Oyelude, CON, has charged media practitioners—particularly online publishers—to uphold fairness, balance, and integrity in their political reportage.

The monarch made the call on Thursday during an interactive session with members of the Osun Online Publishers Association at a one-day capacity-building workshop held at Ben-Ber Hall, Ring Road, Osogbo.

The workshop provided a platform for budding digital media professionals, with a focus on reinforcing journalistic ethics and strengthening the media’s role in democratic governance.

Oba Oyelude, who is the Patron of the Association, highlighted the press as a vital pillar of democracy and urged online media platforms to offer equitable coverage to all political stakeholders, regardless of party affiliation. He emphasized that the media must always place the public interest above political biases.

“In this critical period leading up to the 2026 elections, I want to appeal to you as media professionals to give all political parties and candidates a fair hearing,” the monarch stated.

“Your platforms must remain open to all voices APC, PDP, ADC, or any other. No political party loves the masses more than the media does. You, the press, hold the moral responsibility to ensure that truth and justice prevail.”

He continued, “As the eyes and ears of society, you must uphold the principles of fairness, objectivity, and public interest in your reportage. Let the love for Osun State guide your editorial decisions and content. The public looks up to you for credible information. Do not let them down.”

Commending the Osun Online Publishers Association for organizing the workshop, Oba Oyelude described the initiative as both timely and essential. According to him, ongoing professional development and ethical reorientation are indispensable tools for responsible journalism in the digital age.

“This refresher course is not just necessary it is vital. The media landscape is evolving rapidly, and you must stay ahead to ensure that misinformation and political propaganda do not overwhelm the truth,” he added.