Journalists Urged to Combat Information Disorder

By Oluwabukola Kuteyi

Journalists in Southwest Nigeria have been advised to combat information disorder and uphold credible reporting through fact-checking tools.

In a recently concluded two-day training organised by the International Press Centre (IPC) at Alagbaka Akure, journalists were educated to embrace the Freedom Of Information (FOI) Act with the necessary skills to combat information disorder.

The workshop, which focused on the theme of "Credible Election and Democratic Governance," saw the participation of journalists from various media outlets across several States.

Addressing the issue of information disorder in democratic governance, the Executive Director of IPC, Lanre Arogundade, emphasized the importance of fact-checking in journalism, urging journalists to always distinguish between factual information, stereotypes or preconceived notions. 

Arogundade stressed the role of journalists in clarifying misconceptions and biases to ensure accurate reporting and to combat fake news.

He underscored the dangers of relying on stereotypes and unchecked information, encouraging journalists to verify facts diligently to counter misinformation, disinformation, and mal-information collectively termed as 'fake news.'

He stressed the pivotal role and critical mindset of journalists in influencing society positively through their verified and credible reporting.

Meanwhile, the Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of Guardian Newspaper, Martins Oloja highlighted the significance of FOI Acts in enabling journalists to hold public authorities accountable and combat corruption. 

Oloja noted that the journalist's role in investigating democratic governance issues and ensuring transparency and adherence to rules by regulatory bodies and authorities is pivotal in society.

He further advised reporters to maintain consistency and diligence in election coverage. "Elections are a process rather than a one-time event, journalists must adhere to FOI Acts to access relevant information and hold government officials accountable," said Oloja.

In partnership with the European Union, the workshop provided these journalists with valuable insights and tools to combat information disorder, uphold credible reporting standards, and promote transparency and accountability in democratic governance.