Practicing journalists have been advised to avoid the manipulative tendencies of politicians as the race for the Nov. 11 Kogi Governorship Election gets tougher.

This became imperative as “politicians over time, have continued to subtly set agenda for journalists in order to do their biddings, instead of the media setting agenda for them”.

The advice is contained in a communique issued in Abuja on Wednesday after a two-day workshop organised by the International Press Council (IPC) for practicing journalists from the broadcast, print and online media accredited to report the election.

The trio of Friday Idachaba of Nigeria Pilot; Kath Odok, Head of Station, Grace FM and Boluwaji Obahopov of Vanguard Newspapers, signed the communique.

It stated: “This scenario leaves gaps that are constantly exploited by the politicians, promoting misinformation, disinformation, fake news misleading the electorate.

“Therefore, journalists should guard against being used but constantly verify sources of their information before publication, to avoid disinformation and spreading of fake news.

“Questions should drive our reportage. Be committed to find answers to questions on public issues in their contents as well as take safety precautions seriously in the course of journalistic pursuits, especially coverage of sensitive issues.”

It advised journalists to, as much as possible, deploy Artificial Intelligence (AI) in information gathering and reportage to enrich their contents.

According to the communique, this can be achieved by moving away from the ‘norms’ and explore new areas and styles of reporting, break hitherto unexplored grounds.

“It’s unfortunate that elections in Kogi are always characterised by violence and irregularities, resulting in voter apathy and post-election litigations.

“Therefore, journalists should ensure adequate coverage of the forthcoming Nov. 11 governorship election with fair, objective and unbiased representation of facts, to avoid inciting crisis and violence.

“Since gender issues and Persons with Disabilities (PWDs) are not always considered by stakeholders in the electoral processes, priority attention should be given to the conduct of elections, especially at polling points,” it further advised.

The overall objective of the workshop is to strengthen the media for fair, accurate, ethical and inclusive reporting of the electoral processes.

The IPC workshop was also meant to expose journalists to best practices and deployment of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in reporting of the forthcoming election, with emphasis on professionalism and promotion of peaceful conduct.