Based on preparation for the coming elections in Edo and Ondo states, the Corporate Accountability and Public Participation Africa (CAPPA) has highlighted the importance of ensuring a free and fair election through objective and non-partisan reporting.
This is the focus of a webinar organised on Wednesday , September 11, by CAPPA in partnership with EUSDGN.
The webinar, titled “Conflict-Sensitive Reporting and Election: Best Practices and Ethical Considerations,” highlighted key takeaways for journalists reporting on elections.
Speakers Achike Chude, National Secretary of the Nigerian Union of Journalists and Joke Kujeya, Executive in Charge of Media Mentors Leadership Academy, emphasised the importance of journalists in setting the stage for successful elections.
Chude noted that elections encompass more than just the voting process, involving various factors that must be in place for a truly democratic experience.
Kujeya stressed the need for journalists to maintain objectivity, warning against the dangers of partisan reporting.
She highlighted the risks journalists face when taking sides, including threats to their safety. “True journalists are supposed to be non-partisan,” Kujeya emphasised.
The webinar underscored the significance of ethical considerations in election coverage, emphasising the need for journalists to prioritise accuracy, balance, and fairness. By adopting best practices and upholding ethical standards, journalists can empower voters to make informed decisions and promote a healthy democratic process.
Kujeya also highlighted the opportunities presented by social media in promoting ethical reporting. “In this new generation with free media, journalists can use social media to enlighten the masses,” she noted. By leveraging social media platforms, journalists can reach a wider audience and provide accurate, unbiased information to voters.
However, Kujeya also expressed concerns about the blurring of lines between journalism and partisanship. She cited the example of CNN’s coverage of the 2024 US presidential debate, stating her displeasure with the network’s perceived bias. “Journalists should not take sides,” she emphasised. “True journalists are supposed to be non-partisan.”
This sentiment is particularly relevant in today’s media landscape, where partisan reporting and fake news can spread quickly. Journalists must be vigilant in maintaining their objectivity and ensuring that their reporting serves the public interest.
To achieve this, journalists must be aware of their own biases and take steps to mitigate them. They must also be willing to fact-check and verify information before reporting it.
Additionally, journalists should strive to provide context and depth in their reporting, rather than simply focusing on sensational headlines.
The importance of balanced and accurate reporting cannot be overstated, especially in the context of the Edo State elections. As the electoral process unfolds, journalists have a critical role to play in promoting transparency, accountability, and democratic values.
By following best practices and ethical considerations, journalists can ensure that their reporting contributes to a free, fair, and peaceful electoral process. This includes avoiding sensationalism, giving equal coverage to all candidates, and providing accurate information to voters.
In conclusion, the insights from the CAPPA-EUSDGN webinar serve as a timely reminder of the vital role journalists play in shaping the narrative and promoting democratic values. By leveraging social media responsibly, maintaining objectivity, and adhering to ethical standards, journalists can promote a more informed and engaged citizenry. As the Edo and Ondo States elections approach, the importance of balanced and accurate reporting cannot be overstated.
