As Edo State prepares for the September 21, 2024, governorship election, the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON) urged all participants and stakeholders to strictly adhere to the rules and ensure a level playing field for all.
Comrade Salihu Dembos, Chairman of BON and Director General of the Nigerian Television Authority (NTA), made this call during the 79th General Assembly held in Benin City, Edo State’s capital. Represented by BON’s Vice Chairman, Tony Akiotu, Dembos also expressed concerns over challenges facing the broadcast industry, emphasizing Edo State’s history of setting standards for credible elections.
“Our responsibility as stakeholders in Nigeria is to ensure elections are conducted without hitch, violence, or loss of life,” Dembos stated. “BON appeals to the people of Edo State and the governor to ensure the upcoming election is free, fair, transparent, and violence-free.”
Regarding the broadcast industry’s challenges, he urged the Federal Government to declare a state of emergency due to issues like irregular power supply and new tariffs by DISCOs affecting broadcasters.
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“As BON, we request urgent intervention in broadcasting to prevent a scenario where most radio and TV stations might shut down, leaving us reliant on social media for information, with potentially damaging consequences for our nation,” he warned.
Governor Godwin Obaseki, represented by Commissioner for Communication and Orientation Chris Nehikhare, assured continued support for the media in the lead-up to the election.
“In Edo State, we are committed to supporting a free, independent, and diverse media landscape, especially during this critical election period,” Governor Obaseki affirmed. “We must uphold professionalism, ethical standards, and promote Nigerian culture and values.”
He urged collaboration in addressing industry challenges such as regulatory frameworks, digital transformation, audience engagement, and sustainability.
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