BANDITRY: ZAMFARA GOVT. TRAINS 200 JOURNALISTS ON REPORTING INSECURITY, OTHERS
Governor Bello Muhammad Matawalle of Zamfara State has cautioned journalists against reeling out unverified information on the insecurity situation in the state.
The governor specifically cautioned journalists, especially social media influencers against reeling out unverified figures and sensitive information, capable of fueling the already tensed situation in the state.
Matawalle spoke at the close of a two-day training of 200 Journalists in the state on objectivity and factual journalism in the fight against insecurity.
He said releasing such unverified information to the public would jeopardize the fight against banditry and kidnappings in the state.
Read Also: FG to improve transportation modes to enhance businesses
No fewer than 200 journalists participated in the training with the theme “Role of Media in the fight against insecurity.”
The event was organized by the state Ministry of Information in collaboration with some foreign media partners.
Matawalle represented by Ibrahim Dosara, Commissioner for Information charged journalists on professionalism and high ethical standards while discharging their duty.
Matawalle said the role of the journalists as watch dog of the society was critical as both the government and the govern relied on the media for accurate information to guide their decisions for a better the society.
He said media professionals could not afford to be less professional and unethical towards reporting figure statistics especially during crises.
According to him, the media is expected to report responsibly by providing factual information about fight against banditry and kidnapping as that would reduce tension among people of the state.
“Hence the reason for organizing the training aims at training journalists on modern day expectation in view of the evolution of the social media.” he added.
The Governor also urged journalists to cultivate entrepreneurial spirit and skills in the use of new technology in order to remain relevant in the media and communication industry.
He assured journalists of government support in the state and advised them to be objective in their reportage.
In his remark, on behalf of the resource persons at the training, Mr Yusuf Dingyadi charged those participated in the two-day event to ensure they verified sensitive information before going to press.
He urged media practitioners on the positive use of technology and verify each information at their disposal before releasing same to the public.
Dingyadi said responsible journalism would impact positively in the fight against banditry and kidnappings in Zamfara.
