Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has urged journalists in the state to ensure peaceful and inclusive reporting of the forthcoming general election. He warned the media not to allow themselves to be used by politicians to fan the embers of disunity through hate speech and derogatory comments. Obaseki made these remarks during a courtesy visit by members of the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ), Edo State, to the Government House in Benin City.
The governor emphasized the crucial role of media professionals in elevating the public conversation by focusing on issues rather than trading abuses or harassing individuals. “When people who are not supposed to speak do so, we should step up and condemn them,” he said. He added that there is no justification for a former governor to preach violence, and that the media must lend their voices to ensure a free, fair, credible, and well‑conducted election. “The will of the people will prevail, and we will all agree with the outcome when the results are announced,” Obaseki affirmed, noting that INEC is working hard to get the process right.
Obaseki also highlighted the importance of moderation during the election season, which marks the seventh election in the Fourth Republic and will be followed by many more. He called on everyone to obey political culture and avoid language that undermines democracy, warning that such rhetoric could “burn down” the country.
In response, Comrade Festus Alenkhe, Chairman of the Edo NUJ, commended the governor for his developmental strides in the state and reassured the government of the media’s support.
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