UCHENNA EZEADIGWE
Association of Digital Media Core Advocates, ADMCA, organised a one-day media summit for practicing journalists in Anambra State.
The event, which took place at Awka, Anambra state capital on Thursday, had its theme; ‘Role of Media in Countering Political Intolerance, Electoral Violence and Fake News’.
In his opening remark, the convener and President ADMCA, Dr Harris Chuma-Odili, said the training is a sensitisation summit in furtherance to their commitment to advancing the good of our society as it relates to ethical media practice and engagement.
He stressed that the summit came during a transition period in Nigeria as the elections are around the corner.
“Typical of election of this nature, so many issues bothering on intolerance, propaganda, fake news, thuggery as well as outright violence will be witnessed. This is why as media people there is need for us to play crucial role of informing the masses about the dangers of these ugly tendencies.”
“We must be adequately prepared in order to give the public what they need and desire. It is our belief that this interaction would sharpen all of us, in preparation of the task ahead” he added.
Detailing on the rise of fake news, veteran journalist, Mr. Emma Elekwachi, noted that fake news reporting has eaten into the debris of our information dissemination and has equally caused a lot of harm than good in our society.
Another contributor, Mr. Titus Elewekwe of Daily Trust Newspaper, added that fake news breeds intolerance and violence and media people should be mindful of the type of news they dish out to the public. He reiterated that as a journalist you must be factual and make sure your reports are clear and concise in relaying the information.
Earlier, Vice President, Nigeian Union of Jourmalist, Southeast Council, Comr Emma Ifesinachi, urged journalists to be credible in thie discharge of information.