Media Training On FOI Act Ends In Lagos, Tasks Journalists On Use Of Act For Improved Investigative, Political Reports

Journalists have been charged to understand the legal framework, monitor the organization and operations of political parties including their finances for effective reporting.

Rising from a two day training for journalists, organized by the international Press Centre, Lagos, Ekwi Ajide of our Abuja bureau reports that journalists were enjoined to make adequate use of the Freedom of Information Act, to ensure a robust coverage of political issues in the country.

The Media Training with the theme “Using the Freedom of Information Act for Investigative Reports on Campaign Finance and COVID-19 Accountability Issues”. organized by the International Press Centre in partnership with Media Rights Agenda and funded by the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria, was an opportunity for some select journalists from different parts of the country to brainstorm on more effective ways of reporting to enhance democracy and development in Nigeria.

In his opening address, the Executive Director of the International Press Center, Mr. Lanre Arogundade said the essence of the Workshop was to sensitize Journalists on the importance of holding public office holders accountable using the Freedom of Information Act.

In a presentation on Understanding and Reporting Campaign Finance and Political Expenditure Frameworks and Issues, the Executive Director of OJA Development Consult Mr. Jide Ojo, disclosed the various laws governing electoral campaign financing and harped on its importance for Journalists seeking answers to research thoroughly to enable them report accurately.

Also, a renowned Freelance Investigative Journalist Miss Tobore Ovuorie who dwelt on Using Investigative Reporting Techniques to Monitor Compliance with Campaign Finance and Political Expenditure Regulations gave several ways and skills needed for Journalists who want to make an impact and cause positive changes in the polity can do it through investigative Journalism.

On his part, the Executive Director, Media Rights Agenda, Edetaen Ojo, who drilled journalists on different aspects of the Freedom of Information Act, said the workshop is critical hence it was organized as an in person event despite challenges of organizing physical meetings at this time.