IPC Urges Journalists to Prioritize their Safety During Edo Guber Poll

Ahead of the Edo State Governorship election scheduled for September 21, 2024, the International Press Centre (IPC) has urged journalists covering the election to prioritize their safety.

The Executive Director of IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, made this call, emphasizing the significant risks media professionals often face during election periods. He noted that the heightened tensions among political actors can escalate into threats and attacks on journalists.

Arogundade advised journalists to take precautionary steps to ensure their safety, such as practicing non-partisan reporting, obtaining proper accreditation, avoiding isolation in potentially volatile situations, and maintaining a safe distance when covering violent incidents.

“We have observed a worrying trend of journalists becoming victims of attacks during elections. It is critical for journalists to adopt safety measures to avoid life-threatening situations,” Arogundade stated.

He also called on security agencies to provide adequate protection for journalists in the field, while urging the Inspector General of Police to ensure that officers are deployed to safeguard accredited media personnel. Arogundade highlighted the media’s essential role in the electoral process and the need for their protection.

Furthermore, journalists are encouraged to report any threats to the Edo State Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) for immediate action.

The IPC also called on all stakeholders, including election observers, to work together to guarantee the safety of journalists and ensure the success of the electoral process.

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