Centre urges media to prioritise performance over rhetoric in governance
Centre For a Better Society (CBS) has reiterated the role of responsible media practice in national development, calling for public discourse to be guided by fairness, accountability, and measurable results.
Centre For a Better Society (CBS) has reiterated the role of responsible media practice in national development, calling for public discourse to be guided by fairness, accountability, and measurable results.
Speaking at CBS headquarters in Nigeria, President, Mr. Vincent Ibhaze, stressed that while constructive criticism is essential to democracy, commentary that undermines development or discourages leaders working for progress is detrimental.
The statement: Performance over rhetoric: A Call for Measurable Governance, was signed by Ibhaze and Executive Secretary, Obue Edetalen.
Ibhaze highlighted a controversial remark by ARISE TV anchor, Mr. Rueben Abati, concerning Governor Monday Okpebholo and Edo people.
He cautioned that repeated negative narratives, when not rooted in objectivity, could incite public distrust and weaken morale of leaders committed to developmental initiatives.
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The centre also queried the contributions of Abati during his six-year tenure in the Presidency, asking what measurable federal impact or developmental projects were brought to Ogun State in that period.
“Public service at the highest levels carries an expectation of visible results. Citizens are justified in assessing leadership based on concrete societal contributions, not mere commentary,” the statement noted.
In contrast, CBS pointed to developmental achievements under Okpebholo’s administration. It cited infrastructural expansion, community development programmes, and increased governmental visibility, signallling a governance model focused on implementation rather than rhetoric.
The discussion underscored a broader national concern: leadership and governance must ultimately be evaluated by measurable performance. While media engagement shapes public perception, it cannot replace tangible achievements, such as roads constructed, schools improved, healthcare strengthened, or economic opportunities created.
