State Owned Stations Struggle as Outsiders Tell Our Story

—- Otiti

Deltans are increasingly alarmed at the level of decline in the state owned media sector, a situation that casts a shadow over the region’s communication and public image. Once envisioned as a pillar for informing and educating the people, the state media has now become a pale shadow of itself, riddled with inconsistencies and systemic neglect. The reality on ground is far removed from the progressive image often projected by political spokespersons.

Asaba TV, for instance, has been reduced to operating solely online for the past two years, without any clear roadmap for a full return to traditional broadcasting. Meanwhile, Warri TV and radio stations are trapped in an embarrassing cycle of epileptic power supply, running only when electricity is available. From 11am to 5pm, once the power supply is interrupted, broadcast ceases leaving the public in an information blackout during critical hours.

This deterioration raises serious questions about priorities and governance. Despite owning multiple media outlets, the Delta State Government continues to heavily patronize private national platforms like Arise TV and Channels Television to tell the Delta story. While these platforms provide wide reach, the sidelining of state media suggests a lack of faith in homegrown institutions, and denies them the resources to thrive.

It is deeply ironic that those who frequently appear on television to promote Delta State as an Eldorado often do so through channels that have no roots in the communities they discuss. The voices of ordinary Deltans, and the platforms designed to reflect their realities, have been systematically silenced or ignored. This disconnect only widens the gap between government narratives and the lived experiences of the people.

The time has come for the Delta State Government to prioritize the revival and modernization of its media infrastructure. Investing in sustainable power solutions, upgrading equipment, and empowering media professionals will not only restore public trust, but also ensure that Deltans are the ones telling their own stories