Media Plays Crucial Role in Shaping Public Opinion – Odidiomo

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The lawmaker representing Ibadan North-west/Ibadan South-west federal constituency of Oyo state in the House of Representatives, Hon. Adedeji Dhikrullahi Stanley Olajide, on Friday joined members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Oyo state council, for a special muslim prayer session as part of activities for the Union’s 2025 Press Week.

 

The jumat prayers held at the Alhaji Abdul-Lateef Akin-Tokunbo Olajide Central Mosque, Anfani Ibadan, brought together journalists, community leaders and other Muslim faithfuls who gathered to offer prayers for peace, unity and the progress of the journalism profession in Oyo State and Nigeria at large.

 

Speaking after the prayer, Hon. Olajide, represented by Hon. Kunle Folarin, commended journalists in the state for their commitment to truth, fairness and balance in reporting, describing the media as a vital pillar of democracy.

He urged practitioners to continue upholding ethical standards while contributing to national development through responsible reportage.

According to him, “The media plays a crucial role in shaping public opinion and ensuring accountability. As we celebrate this year’s NUJ Press Week, I urge journalists to stay steadfast in promoting peace and truth, especially in these challenging times.”

 

Earlier in his sermon, Alhaji Abdul-Ganiyu Muhammad, Chief Imam, Alhaji Abdul-Lateef Akin-Tokunbo Olajide Central Mosque, offered special prayers for journalists and their families, asking Allah to grant them wisdom, protection and the courage to stand by the truth.

He also prayed for the continued success of Hon. Olajide in his public service and his contributions to the development of Ibadan and Oyo State.

 

The prayer session is part of a week long series of activities, lined up by the NUJ Oyo state council to celebrate the 2025 press week, which include, lectures, symposium and an award night to honour distinguished personalities who have contributed to the growth of the media industry in the state.