DIG Alabi Urges Journalists To Prioritize National Security Over Sensational Headlines
By Editor
Ado Ekiti (Ekiti South west Nigeria) – The Deputy Inspector General of Police, Mr. Abiodun Alabi, has advised journalists to prioritize national security over sensational headlines.
Speaking at a public lecture organized by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Ado Ekiti, Ekiti State, Alabi emphasized the need for responsible reportage, accuracy, and balance.
“The Role of Media in Promoting National Peace and Security” was the theme of the lecture, where Alabi cautioned journalists against sensationalism, derogatory language, and emotive reporting that may trigger security lapses.
“Journalists should avoid sensationalism, derogative and emotive languages, that may trigger security lapses,” he said.
Alabi further appealed to journalists to refrain from promoting insurgents, saying, “Stop giving oxygen to insurgents, stop giving them unnecessary promotions, and in doing this, you will continue to assist them to achieve their aims of truncating the peace of the nation.”
He also advocated for proactive protection of Nigerian cyberspace and electronic infrastructure from hacking and criminal interference.
Additionally, Alabi recommended establishing programs to prevent terrorists from financing their operations and providing technical assistance to build allies’ capacity.
The NUJ Vice President, B-Zone, Mrs. Ronke Samo, urged the government and security agencies to be functional and ensure a free flow of information without interference.
Oba Adegbenro Falore, the Olufaki of Ifaki-Ekiti, emphasized that security is a joint effort between the public and security operatives. He encouraged journalists to cooperate with security agencies in tackling the country’s security challenges.
This call to action aligns with concerns about sensationalism in journalism, which can evoke audience emotion and attention ¹. By prioritizing national security, journalists can contribute to promoting peace and stability in the country.