Journalists for Christ, JFC, has urged media professionals in Nigeria to ensure access to verified and reliable information for the people.
This is contained in a press statement signed by the President, Mr. Lekan Otufodunrin, as media organizations and associations worldwide commemorate World Press Freedom Day.
Mr. Otufodunrin stated that the theme for this year’s celebration “Information as a Public Good” is very apt considering the urgent need, more than ever before, to ensure that people have access to the right information at all times.
The statement reads in part that, “new media technologies have enhanced freedom of expression, dissemination, and access to information, but the level of misinformation and dissemination have become worrisome.
“Fake news has become the order of the day with much false information and harmful content being disseminated regarding the COVID-19 pandemic and other major crises”.
The group also noted that “in line with the statement by UNESCO Director-General, Audrey Azulay, this year’s celebration should call attention to the essential role of free and professional journalists in producing and disseminating this information, by tackling misinformation and other harmful content.
The group stressed that, “the media in Nigeria and worldwide need the necessary freedom and support guaranteed by the government to be able to play its expected role in properly informing and educating the public,” adding that, “the information people get should be empowering and lifesaving for public good not harmful to individual and corporate existence.