The Kwara State Government has charged media practitioners to uphold professionalism, accuracy and responsible journalism, warning that unverified or sensational reportage could threaten public peace and security.
Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq gave the charge on Monday in Ilorin at the official inauguration of Emirate FM 98.5, a privately owned radio station. He described the media as a critical partner in promoting stability, unity and sustainable development in the state.
The governor, who was represented by the Commissioner for Communications, Mrs Bolanle Olukoju, said the establishment of Emirate FM was a welcome development that would further strengthen information dissemination and public enlightenment in Kwara State.
“The establishment of this radio station is a positive addition to the media landscape of Kwara State. Our administration will continue to provide an enabling environment for private businesses, including media organisations, to thrive,” AbdulRazaq said.
He cautioned broadcasters against sensationalism and the spread of unverified information, noting that careless reporting could undermine security not only in Kwara State but across the country.
Also speaking at the event, the National Coordinator of the Muslim Media Watch Group of Nigeria, Alhaji Ibrahim Abdullahi, described the inauguration of the station as a landmark achievement that should be commended and emulated.
According to him, Emirate FM has expanded the platforms available for public education and enlightenment in the state, urging media organisations to always uphold truth, fairness and responsibility.
“Media organisations must avoid fake news and the tendency to project the state and the nation in a bad light. The media should be guided at all times by ethical standards,” Abdullahi said.
He further urged the management of Emirate FM to use the station as a platform for promoting peace, humanity and moral values.
In his remarks, the founder of Emirate FM 98.5 Ilorin, Abdulazeez Arowona, said his passion for journalism and public service inspired the establishment of the radio station.
Arowona assured listeners and stakeholders that the station would remain committed to ethical journalism, social development and unity, while contributing meaningfully to the growth and development of Kwara State.
“Our goal is to operate a station that serves humanity, promotes peace and supports the overall development of our society,” he said.