Sokoto NUJ trains journalists in accurate judicial, court reporting

The Nigeria Union of Journalists, Sokoto State Council, on Saturday organised a one-day workshop to strengthen the capacity of journalists in accurate judicial reporting and responsible news writing.

The workshop, held in Sokoto, attracted journalists, legal experts, government officials and former union leaders, who emphasised professionalism, fairness and ethical standards in reporting court proceedings.

Speaking at the event, the Chairman of the council, Usman Binji, said the training was a strategic effort aimed at improving journalists’ understanding of judicial processes and promoting responsible reporting.

“This gathering is not just another training session. It is a deliberate effort to build the capacity of journalists in reporting and promoting responsible news writing in our communities,” he said.

According to him, judicial reporting remains one of the most sensitive areas of journalism and requires accuracy, fairness, balance, patience and high ethical responsibility.

He said the theme of the workshop, Accurate Court Reporting: A Pillar of Justice and Public Trust, highlights the role of the media in ensuring justice and democracy thrive through factual and balanced information.

“In an era where misinformation spreads rapidly and legal matters are often misunderstood, journalists must remain committed to truth, responsibility and ethical standards,” Binji added.

Representing the Sokoto State Government, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Sambo Bello Danchadi, commended the NUJ for the programme.

He noted that inaccurate or sensational reports of court proceedings could mislead the public, damage reputations and weaken confidence in the justice system.

“Reporting judicial matters requires professionalism, accuracy, fairness and a deep understanding of legal procedures,” he said.

Danchadi also advised media organisations to deploy experienced reporters for judicial coverage, noting that court reporting demands knowledge of legal language and processes.

He reaffirmed the commitment of Governor Ahmed Aliyu’s administration to supporting professional journalism, peacebuilding and responsible information dissemination.

Director-General of Media and Publicity to the Governor, Abubakar Bawa, called for regular training on media law, especially with the increasing number of radio stations in the state.

“For someone to practise journalism without understanding media law is dangerous. Journalists need proper knowledge to work professionally and avoid legal issues,” he said.

Former NUJ chairman, Isaac Shuni, urged journalists to remain neutral as the 2027 general elections approach.

“Journalists are expected to be fair and balanced. Even if you have political interests, keep them aside while doing your job,” he said.

Another former chairman, Sajo Sanyinna, described court reporting as a specialised beat that requires mentorship and mastery of legal terminology.

“If a journalist is not familiar with legal terms, he will struggle. This workshop is an opportunity participants should utilise,” he said.

The Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Nasiru Binji, represented by Permanent Secretary and Solicitor-General Lambo Sambo Wali, said journalists remain key stakeholders in justice delivery and democratic development.

He warned against reporters interpreting court rulings beyond what judges pronounce.

“You should report court decisions as delivered. It is not the duty of journalists to interpret judgments,” he said.

Three papers were presented at the workshop by veteran journalists Abdallah El-Kurebe and Bashir Rabe Mani, as well as Chief Registrar of the Sokoto State Court of Appeal, Fatima Umar Dewa.

The workshop forms part of efforts by the NUJ to improve journalism standards in Sokoto State and enhance credible coverage of judicial matters.