Ganduje cautioned against news syndrome
The President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chris Isiguzo, has charged journalists to live above ground for effective coverage of the country’s general election for the emergence of credible leadership.
At the Union’s Special Delegates Conference in Kano State, yesterday, he said: “To our delegates from all over the state who have the courage to come to Kano, thank you for your perseverance and dedication to the cause of the union and the profession of journalism. .
“The theme of the conference, ‘Conflict sensitive reporting and Nigerian Journalism’, was chosen because 2023 is an election year in the country and the media is central to the survival of our democracy.”
According to Isiguzo, the characteristics of democracy lie in periodic and reliable elections, during which mandates are renewed or new leaders emerge, showing that elections are a tool for renewal, restoration and strengthening of the entire democratic process.
He notes the power of the media’s role in the system, especially against the background of professional responsibility.
“Journalists are expected to mediate between the contestants for political office through fair reporting and the allocation of space, to educate citizens about the electoral process, and the choice of candidates available, for the masses to make the right choice.
On his part, Governor Abdullahi Ganduje of Kano called on journalists to be wary of “breaking news syndrome”.
The declaration of the conference of delegates opened, yesterday, Ganduje said the success of the general election largely depends on the dissemination of correct information not breaking news.
“Journalists are accused of not having professionalism in carrying out their responsibilities, and this must be taken into account. NUJ must take a critical look at the breaking news syndrome, which affects the dissemination of true information. They must be sensitive to the dispensation of news, especially during the upcoming elections. The role of journalists is important very important for the success of the election. So, he should avoid partisanship,” he said.