Media, CSO, critical stakeholders in democratic transition – Experts
Media, CSO, critical stakeholders in democratic transition – Experts
Democracy
By Ebere Agozie/Wandoo Sumbo
Abuja, Oct. 2, 2022 (NAN) Some experts say the media and Civil Society Organisations are critical in electoral processes and the deepening of democratic transition in Nigeria.
The experts made the declarations in Abuja at the 2022 International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists with the theme: “Policy Dialogue on Media, Civil Society and Violence-free Election in Nigeria”.
The two day event was organised by the Ministry of Justice, Management Conflict in Nigeria (MCN) programme of the European Union supervised by the British Council and the Kano State Government.
They agreed that these stakeholders are required to deliver to Nigerians free and fair elections with high integrity content to establish legitimate, accountable and effective government at all levels.
Prof. Tonnie Iredia, former Director General, Nigeria Television Authority (NTA) said that the media as watchdogs should do more than just report statements of information gathered but question issues for proper accountability by public servants.
“Election is not an event but a process which encompasses many elements that will lead to democratic transition”.
He advised that proper voter education should not be left to only INEC, but that the media should be at the forefront of the advocacy.
He urged the media to be resourceful, avoid being partisan, and reject intemperate language while discharging their duties.
Iredia, therefore, urged the media to always interrogate issues and investigate information available to them to be able to give the public accurate and balanced information.
Prof. Yemi Akinseye-George, President, Centre for Socio-Legal Studies reiterated that the role of Civil Society Organisations and Social Media in promoting violence-free elections in Nigeria cannot be overemphasised.
“There is an urgent need for an intervention into the underlying causes of electoral and political violence in Nigerian politics in other for democracy to prevail”.
Mr Samuel Kargbo, SAN, urged the media and CSO’s to strive to be the pro-social accountability agents and the vanguard of the demand side of good governance.
“Put out yourself to serve as agents of truth, be on the side that strengthens the voice and capacity of citizens to directly demand greater accountability.
” Transparency is the bedrock of accountability. The media should always have access to comprehensive and up-to-date information about all processes at every level of the electoral process.
“Hence, the media must do a reality check on information and reports from INEC and use the information to educate the voters on their rights and the imperative of making informed decisions”. (NAN)
EPA/WS/SH
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edited by Sadiya Hamza