University Don advises journalists on authenticity

From Mustapha Saye, Kaduna

A lecturer from the Ahmadu Bello University (ABU), Zaria, Prof. Ismaila Shehu has advised jour­nalists to stop being willing tools in the hands of politicians and policy makers.

He gave the charge at a one-day work­shop organized by the Network for Jus­tice and Good Governance held at Arewa House, Kaduna yesterday.

“Journalists should be conscious of au­thenticity of their reports.

“As media practitioners, let’s avoid be­ing tools of reporting. Journalists are in­tellectual workers too.

“As a journalist that answers his or her name, there is always news behind the news,” he said.

Presenting a paper entitled: ‘Reposi­tioning The Media For Enhancing De­mocracy And Good Governance In Nige­ria,’ he explained that the media has key role in ensuring good governance.

“When we had consistent demands for dredging the Niger, Yaradua wanted to do it, but died.

“Don’t blame Jonathan, there are par­ties who influence decisions.

“Democracy and good governance cannot be if there is no public participa­tion

“Good governance is about people asking questions, through deploying the FOI Act,” he said.

He explained that although there are challenges that come with the job, jour­nalists have to develop tactics for staying afloat.

“We know the dangers of the journal­ism job. Information is power and the communicator should empower the pub­lic.

“Be careful, develop your own strate­gic approach for safety,” he said.

He further charged journalists to be pa­triotic and put the na­tion first before other sentiments.

“We need our coun­try. People may say different things about NIgeria, but we must not relent,” he added.

He appealed to the media to contribute to the growth of the edu­cation sector by report­ing plights that affect them.

“The media is team­ing up with the ruling class to prevent telling stories of teachers in the country and their plight. This is unfortu­nate.

“Please tell our own side of the story,” he appealed