NGO urges journalists on factual reportage

THE Africa Media Development Foundation, on Thursday urged journalists to always get their facts and figures correct before publication.

The foundation, said in a statement by its Coordinator, Sekyen Dadik that it was important for the media to get valid information from relevant security, humanitarian and statistical agencies before filing reports.

It said that this was necessary to protect the public from falling prey to false information which would affect their stability and well-being.

The statement indicated that the suggestions were part of the recommendations drawn up after the foundation’s annual media clinic, held in Kaduna.

It said that the clinic brought together stakeholders in the Media and Civil Society to x-ray issues that affect the media and proffered solutions.

The statement added that the clinic aimed to make journalists stay above board and avoid spreading false and misleading news.

It stressed that some of the recommendations included the regulation of the social media using ethics applicable in the journalism profession.

It also called for laws to regulate the social media but with active input of all relevant stakeholders.

The clinic called on the Nigeria Union of Journalists to sanction erring members and encourage professional journalists to exert their authority in the social media, to limit circulation of fake reports.