By Mercy Onyenweli

A political science expert, Prof. Henry Oghoator, has urged opposition parties in Nigeria to develop clear political ideologies and remain committed to their principles if the country’s democracy is to achieve meaningful progress.

Prof. Oghoator, a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Political Science, Western Delta University, Oghara, Edo State, made the call while speaking at the annual lecture of the Federated Chapel of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State Council, held in Benin City, where he served as Chairman of the occasion.

He warned that Nigeria’s democratic development would continue to suffer setbacks unless political parties moved away from what he described as “anywhere belle face politics” and embraced ideology-driven leadership.

According to him, opposition parties must provide alternative policy directions and engage constructively with the government rather than focus solely on criticism.

Declaring the event open, Prof. Oghoator commended journalists for their role in promoting accountability and providing citizens with credible information.

He urged media practitioners to uphold ethical journalism, factual reporting, and professionalism, warning against politically motivated and pecuniary-driven reportage.

“This ceremony is about appreciating your good work and sacrifices while ensuring that citizens have access to credible and timely information. I encourage you to continue to promote ethical journalism and factual, accurate reporting, as against politically motivated or pecuniary-induced reportage,” he said.

The university don also commended the Federated Chapel for organising the lecture, themed “Knowing Your Mental Health Status: A Prerequisite for a Robust and Productive Economy.”

He noted that the topic was timely, particularly as Nigerians continue to grapple with economic challenges capable of affecting the mental well-being of citizens.

Speaking on the sub-theme, “The Role of Opposition Parties in a Democratic System,” Prince Israel Erakhai stressed that the responsibility of opposition parties extends beyond condemning the actions of the ruling party.

He said a vibrant opposition must develop alternative policies, set constructive agendas, and hold the government accountable.

According to him, “When a vibrant and responsive opposition is in place, the people are better for it.”

Meanwhile, a mental health expert, Dr. Okonkwo Bartholomew, emphasized the importance of mental health awareness in promoting productivity and national development.

Dr. Bartholomew, a Senior Registrar at the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Benin City, stated this while delivering a keynote lecture titled “Knowing Your Mental Health Status: A Prerequisite for a Robust and Productive Economy.”

He warned that untreated psychological conditions could negatively affect workforce efficiency, decision-making, and economic growth.

The programme, organised by the Federated Chapel of the NUJ, Edo State Council, in collaboration with the Federal Neuro-Psychiatric Hospital, Uselu, focused on sensitising commercial drivers and members of the public to the importance of mental health screening.

Dr. Bartholomew advocated regular mental health checks, early diagnosis, and timely intervention, adding that sustained public enlightenment was necessary to eliminate the stigma associated with mental illness.

In her welcome address, Chairman of the Federated Chapel, Mercy Onyenweli, described mental health as a critical factor in national productivity and development.

She identified journalists, commercial drivers, civil servants, and students as groups facing increasing psychological pressures and stressed the need for structured support systems.

Onyenweli disclosed that the mental health awareness campaign and free screening exercise for commercial drivers would become an annual initiative of the chapel.

Also speaking, Chairman of the NUJ Edo State Council, Festus Alenkhe, commended the Federated Chapel for championing a programme that addresses a critical societal challenge.

Alenkhe, who is also the Acting Managing Director of the Edo Broadcasting Service (EBS), urged other NUJ chapels to emulate the initiative by developing programmes that positively impact society.

He challenged journalists to go beyond reportage by initiating interventions that improve the lives of citizens.

In his goodwill message, the Permanent Secretary, Edo State Ministry of Transportation, Barr. (Dr.) Samson Erhaze, described the collaboration between media practitioners and health professionals as timely, noting that mental wellness is closely linked to road safety, workplace efficiency, and sustainable development.

Stakeholders at the lecture called for stronger collaboration among the media, healthcare institutions, and government agencies to deepen mental health awareness and integrate it into public policy and community engagement.

The event also featured the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Prof. Henry Oghoator in recognition of his contributions to the advancement of education in Nigeria.