Irresponsible journalism, rooted in laziness to verify, re-check and triple check “facts and figures” before going to town with it can inflame a nation, Chairman of the Channels TV, Mr. John Momoh, has warned.
Besides, he cautioned broadcast journalists, especially, to avoid rhetorics that could be devisive and offensive to national unity and therefore, development.
Speaking on “Challenges, Prospects and Responsibilities” as a sole Resource at the Lagos leg of the two arm induction of 400 members into the Society of Nigeria Broadcasters (SNB) in Lagos, the Media Entreprenuer charged journalists to be weary of politicians who may want to use them to subvert the peace of the nation.
Earlier in his welcome address, the Coordinator of the revival and induction of the SBN members, Dr. Yemisi Bamgbose, said the society’s formation would promote professionalism, enhance advocacy and bridge the gap among the retired, retiring and upcoming broadcasters.
Bamgbose, who doubles as the Executive Secretary of the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria (BON), commended the four-member “progenitors” of the society, assuring that the “solid” foundation they founded shall be built on.
Veteran Broadcaster, Engr. Vincent Maduka advised journalists, particularly of the broadcast genre, to self-regulate themselves at an event where a member of the pioneers , Chief Yemi Farounbi lamented that though the population support proliferation of broadcast station,”the economy does not support it,” just as he disclosed that Ibadan has about forty radio station.
Among the oldies that were inducted as hybrid with the new-old included Mohammed Ibrahim, Hajia Sa’a Ibrahim, Tonie Iredia, Segun Aderiye, Festus Kehinde, Shyngle Wigwe, Vincent Maduka, Tosin Dokpesi, Yakubu Mohammed, Lekan Ajia and a Professor of Media Studies, Jendele Hungbo.