Prominent Cameroonian lawyer and internationally acclaimed peace crusader, Sir Dr. Ntumfor Barrister Nico Halle, has cautioned journalists against the dangers of misinformation and unethical reporting, urging greater professionalism in the exercise of press freedom.
In a message to journalists on the occasion of the 2026 World Press Freedom Day (WPFD), the Douala-based legal luminary—who also serves as patron of the Cameroon Association of English Speaking Journalists (CAMASEJ) and the Cameroon English Language Newspaper Publishers’ Association (CENPA)—called on media practitioners to stand for the truth, stressing that their reporting ultimately defines their legacy.
Nico Halle noted that financial and logistical constraints continue to hinder the effective functioning of some media outlets, a situation he warned could expose the profession to serious ethical lapses. He, however, urged journalists to remain professional despite these challenges.
“Some press organs, I would say a few, might go into misinformation, disinformation, and malinformation because of the want of means,” he said, highlighting the link between limited resources and declining editorial standards.
The legal practitioner drew historical parallels with the Rwandan Genocide, which he described as a stark reminder of the consequences of irresponsible journalism. According to him, media content at the time contributed to the escalation of violence that led to the death of over one million people within a short period.
“I have been making allusion over the years to what happened in Rwanda in 1994 because of irresponsible journalism,” Nico Halle stressed, urging journalists to learn from past failures and uphold the highest standards of truth and accountability.
Beyond ethical concerns, Nico Halle also underscored the risks faced by journalists globally, noting that many continue to operate under threats, intimidation, and even danger to their lives—particularly when reporting on sensitive or controversial issues.
“Journalists all over the world face intimidation and threat of life, especially when they report on heinous issues,” he said, reinforcing his message on professional legacy and reminding media practitioners that their work ultimately defines their credibility and long-term impact.
“I heartily congratulate media professionals from both public and private sectors, for what they have done so far, and are doing, and will continue to do, despite the very harsh socio-political, economic, and cultural environment,” Nico Halle said.
Nonetheless, he warned media practitioners against weaponized journalism that destroys their legacy saying journalists build their legacies through the quality of their reports.
“You can destroy your legacy when you play into the hands of crooks, who use you for their purpose, destroy and dump you when their goals have been attained. My wake-up call to the media is vigilance against unscrupulous citizenry,” Nico Halle stressed.
World Press Freedom Day is commemorated annually on May 3 to celebrate the fundamental principles of press freedom. This year’s observance was held under the theme: “Shaping a Future at Peace: Promoting Press Freedom for Human Rights, Development, and Security.”
Nico Halle’s message adds to growing calls for responsible journalism as a cornerstone of democracy, peace, and development.
