Investigative Journalism Crucial in Exposing Corruption, Says WAMAC Director
A town hall meeting organized by Wadata Media Advocacy Centre (WAMAC) in partnership with Radio Nigeria, Fombina FM, Yola, and supported by the MacArthur Foundation has emphasized the importance of investigative journalism in exposing corruption and promoting good governance in Nigeria.
Zubairu Idris, executive director of WAMAC, stressed that investigative journalism is key to exposing corruption issues and complementing the efforts of anti-corruption agencies in Nigeria. He made this statement at the town hall meeting, which had the theme “Safeguarding Public Infrastructure Against Corrupt Practices: The Role of Community.”
According to Idris, investigative reports would aid the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC) and the Independent Corrupt Practices and other related offences Commission (ICPC) in reducing corruption and bad governance. He urged journalists and relevant stakeholders to sensitise the public on the need to fight corruption for the development of the country.
Idris also highlighted the crucial role communities play in ensuring that public infrastructure are protected and utilised for the benefit of all. He believes that communities have vital roles to play in safeguarding public infrastructure and promoting good governance.
Johna Agye, director of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), commended WAMAC for the step taken and described it as timely, given the impact of corruption on present and future development in Nigeria. He called on stakeholders to contribute their quota in safeguarding public infrastructure for the good of everyone and those yet unborn.
Prof. Bashir Aliyu, a lecturer at Modibbo Adama University (MAU), Yola, also emphasized the importance of safeguarding public infrastructure from community to national level. He highlighted different forms of corruption and the roles communities can play in promoting development in their respective areas.
To achieve the intended objectives, religious leaders, civil society organisations, and other groups have promised to step down the messages in churches, mosques, and other gatherings.
In conclusion, the town hall meeting underscored the significance of investigative journalism in exposing corruption and promoting good governance in Nigeria. It also highlighted the crucial role communities play in safeguarding public infrastructure and promoting development in their respective areas.
