Why I instituted N1m investigative journalism award – Ochei.

ASABA—The need to reposition the media for greater challenges through veracious reportage, has been adduced as the reason for instituting an annual N1million prize for the best investigative journalist in Delta State, said Speaker of Delta State House of Assembly, Mr. Victor Ochei. Speaking during an interactive session with journalists as part of activities to mark the second anniversary of the Fifth Assembly of the Delta State legislature, Ochei
challenged the media to eschew speculative journalism, which according to him lack the elements of societal development. Ochei urged media practitioners to embrace factual reportage, as against sensationalism, adding that while truthful presentation stands the test of time, fallacious journalism pales into insignificance which in the final analysis, puts the journalism profession to the test. He said: “Journalists as members of the fourth estate of the realm and dependable partners to government owe it a duty to the society to always present facts as they are, inline with their expected functions in any society.” He pledged to assist the media ensure that prospective winners of the prize would be afforded the opportunity to improve on their skills by way of training,which will offer them a platform for global recognition.