The International Press Centre, IPC, has urged journalists and other media professionals that will cover and report Edo State governorship election today, to ensure their safety first.
Ekwi Ajide of our Abuja Bureau reports that IPC’s Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade sounded the note of caution in the light of emerging accusations and counter accusations by political actors and other players in the electoral process about possible violence.
Mr. Arogundade noted that though the signing of the peace accord has allayed fears, violence in elections is often unpredictable, so staying safe should be a priority.
According to him, it is very important for journalists covering the Edo state election to be safety conscious in the discharge of their duties and to avoid situations that will put them in harm adding that if there is an outbreak of violence, journalists should ensure to stay safe and not be caught in the melee of violent disruptions.
He reminded journalists to be non-partisan as being partisan is not only about being a member of a political party but also includes the use of expressions and/or impressions with statements, tags, symbols and colours that portray or identify them with a particular political party or personality.
Mr. Arogundade admonished other stakeholders, especially the security agencies to undertake their tasks in a very professional manner, and especially to recognize that the media is a critical factor for credible and peaceful elections.
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