Those using media to divide Nigeria –Lai Mohammed

The Minster of Information and Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, on Thursday commended the Nigerian media for its role in promoting democracy, but frowned that some people are using it to promote division.

He said that the media, especially the social media is being explored by some Nigerians with vested political interests “to promote divisions along ethnic and religious lines in the country.”

The minister stated this in a statement to mark 2018 World Press Freedom Day in Abuja on Thursday with the theme, “Keeping power in check: Media, justice and the rule of law.”

He appealed to the media to always “ensure fairness, impartiality, truth and accuracy in reporting the activities of government, in line with the principles of responsible journalism.

“As an important pillar of democracy, the media must purge itself of all prejudice in order to be able to hold all the levels and arms of government to account,” he said.

While commending the media for its role so far in promoting democracy in Nigeria, Alhaji Mohammed said the media should strive to operate above political influence and interference.

“As the political parties and the nation in general prepare for another electioneering process, the media must ensure the transparency of the entire political process through unbiased and objective reporting” he added.

The Minister expressed concern at how some vested political interests are exploring the media to promote divisions along ethnic and religious lines in the country, saying such unpatriotic conduct will not augur well for the nation’s unity and progress.

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He said that the government is not unaware of the effort of mischief makers to use the social media, in particular, to undermine the government and promote ethno-religious crisis, especially ahead of the forthcoming general elections.

Alhaji Mohammed, however, restated the commitment of the present administration to press freedom in the country, saying the administration would continue to ensure that journalists are able to carry out their duties unfettered.

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