The Lagos State Office of the Independent Corrupt Practices and Other Related Offences Commission (ICPC) has told Nigerian journalists and bloggers to display a high level of professional ethics in the reportage of corrupt practices and other related offences.
In his remarks at a one-day media training session organised by the Human and Environmental Development Agenda (HEDA) recently at Ikeja, the Resident Anti-Corruption Commissioner (RACC) of Lagos state, Kabir Elelu, stated that the media had a vital role in a society afflicted by endemic corruption.
The RACC, who was represented by Mrs. Hadiza Rimi, an officer of the Commission, stated that “The function of the media goes beyond merely reporting on occurrences. It extends to the fundamental premise of ethical reporting, which must be upheld.”
He also stated that “The power of the media might either reveal the truth, instigate change and encourage accountability, or it can unintentionally contribute to disinformation, perpetuate prejudices and damage public trust.”
Elelu encouraged media professionals to see the session as a collaborative step towards creating a new narrative that values truth, honesty and responsibility in their reporting.
Mr Sulaimon Arigbabu, Executive Secretary of HEDA, criticised the growth in corruption among the political class and civil service, but praised the media for doing its utmost to expose wrongdoing.