Political Rhetoric in Media Must Be Ethical—Kano Commissioner
Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs, Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, has reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring responsible media content, particularly in political broadcasts.
He made this statement during a stakeholders’ meeting organized by the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) with broadcast stations in Kano.
According to Comrade Waiya, his engagements with key media stakeholders—including the Gauta Club, Heads of the Kano Media Forum, the Kano State Political Presenters Association, and the Society of Nigerian Broadcasters—are part of efforts to refine the language used in political programs, especially in radio discussions advocating for political leaders.
“We are committed to promoting responsible journalism. Our interactions with media stakeholders are aimed at ensuring that political discourse remains respectful and free from inflammatory language,” he said.
The Commissioner also emphasized the government’s focus on training and retraining media professionals. He disclosed that all Information Officers attached to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) and local government areas will be registered with relevant professional bodies to enhance effective information dissemination.
Furthermore, Comrade Waiya raised concerns about the rising trend of fake news, noting that the widespread use of smartphones has made misinformation more rampant.
“Unverified reports pose a serious threat to public peace. As journalists, it is our duty to curb misinformation and promote responsible reporting,” he warned.
In his remarks, the Director-General of the NBC, Mr. Charles Ebuebu, represented by the Director of Monitoring, Dr. Susan Obi, highlighted the importance of professionalism in broadcasting.
“Broadcasting is built on core principles of professionalism, creativity, innovation, truth, fairness, and respect. Sadly, recent trends in Kano show a departure from these principles,” Dr. Obi stated.
She lamented that some broadcasters have abandoned mutual respect and ethical standards, instead resorting to character assassination and defamation.
“As leaders in the broadcasting industry, we have a responsibility to uphold the highest standards of journalism. Sensationalism, malicious innuendos, and personal attacks only serve to erode the institutionalized culture of the Kano people,” she added.
The post Political Rhetoric in Media Must Be Ethical—Kano Commissioner appeared first on Kano Times.
