Friends of the late Comrade Ambassador Tunde Oladunjoye (CATO) on Monday organised a one-year memorial lecture in his honour, calling on journalists to uphold ethics and professionalism in their practice.
The lecture, titled “The Pen, the Truth, and the Burden of Responsibility: Preserving the Legacy of Ethical Journalism,” was held at the June 12 Cultural Centre, Kuto, Abeokuta, Ogun State, attracting media practitioners, youth groups, and other stakeholders.
Delivering the keynote address, former Deputy Speaker of the Ogun State House of Assembly, Hon. Remi Hazzan, described journalism as a serious responsibility that requires truth, courage, and accountability. He urged journalists to remain committed to accuracy and fairness, especially in an era where misinformation spreads rapidly.
Hazzan warned against sacrificing credibility for speed or sensationalism, stressing that integrity must remain the foundation of the profession.
He said the late Oladunjoye exemplified ethical journalism throughout his career, adding that his legacy should inspire journalists to prioritise truth and responsibility in their work.
“Journalism is not just about reporting events; it is about holding power accountable and contributing to societal development,” he said.
The event was attended by Sir Eddy Aina, Prince Dimeji Kayode Adedeji, Mrs. Olori Toyin, members of the Nigeria Youth Organisation, Ogun State chapter, and journalists from the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation, and Edunright Media, Penpushing Media, and among other dignitaries.
Participants at the event emphasised the need to strengthen ethical standards in the media, noting that public trust depends on credible and accurate reporting.
They also called on media organisations to create an enabling environment for journalists to carry out their duties professionally and without undue interference.
The memorial lecture also celebrated the life and contributions of Oladunjoye, with many describing him as a committed journalist whose legacy should guide the next generation of media practitioners.