…urges journalists to be credible in their discharge of information especially during the election
The Association of Digital Media Core Advocates (ADMCA), has organised a one-day media summit for practising journalists in Anambra State in preparation for next week’s general elections in Nigeria.
The event held in Awka, Anambra state capital had its theme, “Role of Media in Countering Political Intolerance, Electoral Violence and Fake News.”
Convener and president of ADMCA, Dr Harris Chuma said the training was a sensitisation summit in furtherance of the association’s commitment to advancing the good of the society as it related to ethical media practice and engagement.
He said, “The summit is coming during a transition period in Nigeria as the election is around the corner. Typically of election of this nature, so many issues bothering on Intolerance, propaganda, fake news, thuggery as well as outright violence.
“This is why as media people there is need for us to play the crucial role of informing the masses about the dangers of these ugly tendencies.
“We must be adequately prepared to give the public what they need and desire. We believe that this interaction would sharpen all of us, in preparation for the task ahead.”
Speaking on the rise of fake news, veteran journalist, Emma Elekwachi noted that fake news reporting has eaten into the fabrics of nation’s information dissemination, at the same time caused lot of harm than good in the society.
Another veteran, Titus Eleweke, on his part, urged journalists to be mindful of type of news they dish out to the public, stressing that fake news breeds intolerance and violence.
” As a journalist, you must be factual and make sure your reports are clear and concise in relaying the information,” he added.
Earlier, Vice President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, Southeast zone, Comrade Emma Ifesinachi urged journalists to be credible in their discharge of information especially during the election season.
