By Correspondent in Ilorin
Journalists in Nigeria, found indulging in spreading fake news, have been advised to eschew such unpatriotic behaviour as part of efforts to check the harmful effects as well checking insecurity in the country.
The Bishop of Catholic Diocese of Ilorin, Most Rev. Paul Adegboyega Olawoore, gave the advice on Sunday at the 55th world communication Day at St. Joseph Catholic Cathedral Ilorin.
The Reporters correspondent reports that the theme of this year is: ” Come And See, Communicating And Encountering People, Where And As They Are.”
The cleric further told media practitioners,;”We must do all we can to be at the fore front of exposing fake news which people brand around. This will be achieved when we “Come and see.
” Whenever we hear things as reporters or journalists or even as a lay man/woman, let us refrain from spreading such news or report.
” When we have not gone to see ourselves, let us avoid the fallacy of hasty conclusion, or a situation whereby we are moved by the crowd mentality. We must verify and confirm all that we hear and read.”
The Bishop also stressed the need for Journalists to be responsible for the information they made known to the public and ensure that such information is truthful in all ramifications.
The cleric said that given the high rate of insecurity in the country, government must do the needful by increasing efforts in tackling the security challenges in the country.
He, however,reminded Nigerians that solution to the various challenges, facing the nation, particularly insecurity,was a collective responsibility, adding that everyone must device means of curbing them to the barest minimum.
According to him, people surrendered leadership to government as a trust, stressing that those elected to carry out such leadership role should be faithful, in line with the oath of office they swore, to uphold good governance for the benefit of the people.
The Bishop, who is also the state Chairman, Kwara State chapter of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN),stressed the need for religious bodies to organize program for the youths that would educate and enlightened them against committing crime
He also stressed the need for such bodies to creat job opportunities for the youth and train them on skills acquisation to enable them earn a living, instead of roaming the streets and being lured into thuggery and other ungodly acts.
The Communication Director, Ilorin Diocese of the church Rev. Fr. Christopher Atoyebi, who commended the media for positive contribution to human society also enjoined journalists and people to guard against the spread of fake news.
