The Publisher and Editor-in-Chief of Niger Delta Herald Newspapers, and Chairman of Bayelsa Independent Publisher Association (BIPA), Francis Dufugha, has declared that despite the sweeping wave of digital disruption and the rise of social media, responsible journalism remains indispensable to society, insisting that truth—not technology—must remain the anchor of the profession.
Dufugha made this known in an exclusive interview with Elliot Zamide of NaijaInfoWatchdog.com in Yenagoa, Bayelsa State, where he reflected on his journey into journalism, the evolution of his media organization, and the challenges confronting conventional media in the digital era.
Tracing his inspiration to his late father, Pa David Dufugha the award winning publisher described journalism as both a calling and a deeply personal commitment.
“My father never wanted me to study law. He used to say lawyers are liars,” he recalled. “He had a friend from Portugal who was a journalist, and during one of their discussions, he said he would prefer his son to become a journalist rather than a lawyer.”
That conviction, he said, pushed him to study the profession on his own.
“I began to ask myself who a journalist is and what are the responsibilities of a journalist. When I understood that journalism helps to keep society on its toes and contributes to development, I embraced it. Anything that will bring progress and that I can contribute to, I say yes to it.”
He described his decision as “answering the call of my father,” adding that his father was proud of his accomplishments before his passing.
On the origin of Niger Delta Herald, Dufugha explained that the publication’s identity evolved from an earlier concept suggested by a mentor, Mr. Fred Fabo, who had proposed the name “Delta Herald”. After a few editions, he reconsidered the direction and scope.
“Our people in the Niger Delta are marginalized. They want a voice. If we are going to be that voice, it cannot be limited to a narrow identity. We are Niger Delta people and we are at the heart of the Niger Delta. That was why we embraced a name that reflects the entire region,” he said.
He clarified that despite the regional name, Niger Delta Herald is a private enterprise and not owned by any state government.
“Some people assume it is collectively owned by the Niger Delta states because of our presence at regional events. But it is privately owned and independent,” he stressed.
Speaking on the impact of technology and social media on traditional media practice, Dufugha referenced the Technological Determinism theory, which posits that technology shapes societal evolution.
“Yes, technology influences society. But human beings are not robots. It is humans who manipulate technology. Technology does not control us,” he argued.
According to him, the digital revolution has disrupted revenue streams but has also created opportunities for convergence.
“You must move with the times. You have to be creative. Traditional media outfits now have social media handles because if you don’t converge, you will be left behind,” he noted.
He acknowledged the dangers of fake news and unregulated citizen journalism but maintained that professional journalism remains relevant.
“One mischievous post on social media can cause serious societal problems. But trained journalists understand verification and ethics. That is why credible media platforms still matter,” he said.
On government relations, Dufugha was unequivocal that Niger Delta Herald does not maintain any partnership with the Bayelsa State Government in order to preserve editorial independence.
“Ethically, I cannot partner with the government. Our duty is to highlight their activities and also expose wrongdoing where necessary. The moment you depend on government support, it may blind your eyes from upholding the truth,” he stated.
He emphasized that the newspaper’s guiding principle is anchored on truth and accountability, regardless of whose interests are affected.
“No matter whose ox is gored, we must insist that the truth prevails,” he added.
Advising young journalists, Dufugha called for perseverance, focus and integrity.
“They must persevere and remain focused. If you love what you are doing and commit yourself to it, you will succeed. Don’t enter journalism with the mindset of blackmailing people to make money,” he warned.
While admitting that investigative journalism is expensive venture, he insisted that cost should not deter journalists from exposing wrongdoing.
“Yes, it requires resources to dig out hidden facts. But will you allow society to continue rotting because it is expensive? If you don’t nip problems in the bud, they will affect generations unborn.”
Dufugha concluded by reaffirming that although technology will continue to reshape the media landscape, the enduring values of courage, truth and responsibility must remain the foundation of journalism in Nigeria and beyond.
Digital Disruption, Courage and the Burden of Truth: Francis Dufugha Speaks
