By Prisca Nguzo
... harp on balanced, development driven reportage
Journalists in Imo State have been urged to consider the security implications and impact of their news contents on the general public before publishing them.
The charge was made by the state governor, Sen. Hope Uzodinma and the Commissioner of Police, CP Aboki Danjuma at the closing ceremony of Imo State chapter of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ Press Week, held in Owerri, weekend.
Governor Uzodimma represented by the Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Hon. Declan Emelumba said the media, "having the knowledge of its inherent power to make or mar the society, should prioritize news reports that promote unity, peace and security rather than otherwise."
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The governor also reiterated his continued support for journalism practice, and reassured his commitment to general welfare and security of media practitioners in the state.
Also, the Imo CP who was the Guest Speaker at the media event, represented by the Assistant Commissioner of Police in charge of Administration and Finance, ACP Edwin Nkpa in his lecture titled, "The role of the Media in Combating Insecurity," advised the media to focus more on the efforts and achievements of the security agencies in fighting crimes and criminality in the society instead on their inadequacies.
CP Danjuma said, "the media should stop focusing mostly on the inadequacies of the security operatives as this could erode the confidence of the public on the security operatives. This could lead to less support from the public.
"The security agencies are making successes and breakthroughs on regular basis despite all the constraints. Therefore, the media should rather partner and focus more on their achievenents for the good of the society."
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He continued, "the role of the media should also be to educate the citizens to shun violence and criminal activities. The Influence of mass media on public opinion regarding perception of crime in the society is undeniable. The specific way in which the media are presenting crimes is often exaggerated and even sensational and therefore, gives information which are often grounded on emotions, sentiments and political bias rather than facts.
"Sensationalistic reporting on crime leads to increased viewership and readership which results in making more money by the publisher, but one of the consequences is a false image about the nature and scope of crimes. Ironically, this cause fear and panicking in the society."
"Finally, the media as a veritable tool in fighting insecurity must work in synergy with the police and other security agencies in ensuring that crimes and criminalities are brought to the barest minimum in Imo State in particular and Nigeria in general." Imo police boss added.
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In the same vein, the Chairman of the event, a renowned businessman and philanthropist in the state, Chief Obioma Success Akagburuonye in his remark said, "I strongly advise you journalists to always be professional, fair and balanced, also bear the interest of the nation at heart, and more importanthy, have the fear of God in discharging your tasking, onerous and risky responsibilities.
"Also, as journalists, you should be in the forefront of identifying, attracting, and popularising Godly people into positions of governance, leadership and authority who will, doubtlessly, be committed to selfless and sacrificial service to the benefit of the people. The Word of God says that, "When the righteous are in authority, the people rejoice: But when the wicked beareth rule, the people mourn" - Proverbs 29:2."
Highlights of the event included presentation of Achievement, Excellence, Service and other categories of award to deserving personalities including CP Aboki Danjuma, Sen. Ostia Izunaso, Pastor Bright Chimezie Njoku, Chief Executive Officer/Publisher of Horn Group of Newspapers among others.
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