Journalists Can Make or Mar 2023 Elections, Babcock V-C Warns
Professor Ademola Tayo, President/Vice Chancellor of Babcock University, Ilishan- Remo, Ogun State, has cautioned media practitioners to bear in mind the role they play in society as opinion molders, adding that they can make or mar a country.
He warned them that as the 2023 elections draw near, journalists must not be influenced by politicians through disinformation that could lead to citizens making incorrect choices.
Professor Tayo, who spoke Saturday night during the annual get together of the Education Writers Association of Nigeria (EWAN), online publishers, and photojournalists, appealed to journalists to use their given role to save the nation.
According to him, because voters lack the ability to analyse media information, some politicians may exploit this to misinform the public and gain an unfair political advantage.
Professor Tayo said, “Journalists also run the risk of being influenced by actors that go beyond the ethics of public relations and accountability by attempting to mislead or bribe journalists into spreading disinformation through the idea of an anonymous source in news reporting.”
“| am worried, and I know that you are worried too, that disinformation could cause mis-judgments, unrest, and wrong choices by citizens, particularly when they do not have the media literacy skills to evaluate the content. This could have dire consequences on the nation’s production and consumption levels.
You can read more of such stories at Credible News and The Cheer News
- UNILAG Appoints Oluwafunmilayo Adekunle as Bursar
- 2023 Election Will Despite Loss of 1990 ballot boxes, 399 voting cubicles, 24 generators, PVCs – INEC
- Court Disqualifies 16 House of Assembly Candidates From 2023 Elections
“I understand, as you do, that a journalist’s primary obligation is to acquire the trust of the public and commit to telling the truth. Their information must be confirmed, and they must avoid prejudices and biases while writing as objectively as possible. They must understand public trust as a true desire to engage on a human level, not as a notion. Journalists should view the public as a community rather than just an audience in whom their profession plays an important role.”
“In spite of the critical role you play, we know that these are not easy times for the press globally. From Ukraine, Afghanistan, Iran and China the story is the same ~ blood, hate and wars. Yet, the world expects you to present a balanced story, analysing events and setting the agenda for public discourse both on and off-line. But, you must remain committed to the truth and factual reporting in all circumstances,” Professor Tayo, said.
Tayo added: “We therefore charge you as professionals to stand up to the challenge of the times and the immense responsibility on your shoulders. In spite of threats from political manipulators and infiltrators in the ranks ready to exchange professionalism for mediocrity, continue to uphold the tenets of truth, objectivity and integrity which are the hallmarks of great journalism.
‘This is political campaign period before election February and March next year. As key stakeholders, you must facilitate political discourse, foster transparency and information sharing, and serving as an effective forum for public debate.”
You can read more of such stories at Credible News and The Cheer News
