Says journalism must preserve truth, hold leaders accountable

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has said that journalism must continue to serve the public interest, hold leaders accountable and provide citizens with accurate information to make informed decisions.

He, however, described the media as an indispensable pillar of democracy.

The President made the declaration yesterday in a tribute to veteran journalist, distinguished editor and former Managing Director of Guardian Newspapers Limited, Oyinlade “Ladbone” Bonuola, on his birthday.

Tinubu, who celebrated Bonuola’s remarkable contributions to Nigerian journalism spanning more than five decades, described him as one of the country’s most respected media professionals, whose editorial courage, integrity and commitment to truth had left an enduring imprint on the industry.

According to the President, Bonuola’s professional accomplishments underscored the importance of responsible journalism in promoting public accountability, strengthening democratic institutions and preserving factual records for future generations.

“Your career reflects a profound belief that journalism must serve the public interest, hold leaders accountable, and give citizens the information they need to make informed decisions. Your influence extends beyond the newsrooms you led,” Tinubu stated.

He particularly acknowledged Bonuola’s contributions to shaping the language of media reporting in Nigeria, describing him as one of the 20th century’s exceptional editors.

“At 80, you stand tall as one of Nigeria’s most respected figures in journalism, a man whose professional excellence, editorial courage, integrity, and commitment to the truth have left an enduring imprint on the nation’s media landscape,” he further said.

Tinubu, however, lauded Bonuola’s mentorship of younger journalists, noting that his influence extended beyond the newsrooms he managed to generations of media practitioners who benefited from his professional example.