BY AMINU BALA
By convention and practice, media houses and journalists have the right to express their opinions under guided principles, ethical compliance, and the rule of law.
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The recent allegations surrounding the arrest and detention of two journalists in Kano State have sparked intense debate.
However, it’s essential to set the record straight: the duo were only invited for questioning, not arrested or detained, for allegedly attacking the personality of Comrade Ibrahim Abdullahi Waiya, Kano State Commissioner for Information and Internal Affairs in one online media platform, Kano Times titled “Dear Governor Abba Kabir, Beware of Waiya”.
Some critics argue that the police’s invitation for questioning was improper.
Amnesty International, in particular as a reputable organization, appears to have jumped to conclusions without proper due diligence by condemning the police invitation, describing it as a threat to free press.
It’s crucial to verify facts before making conclusions and Amnesty should ensure they present accurate information to maintain their credibility.
It was clear that Amnesty didn’t balance findings as one of the guided principles of journalism. According to Amnesty, it heard the tidings break from the grapevine.
To this extent, Amnesty, as a reputable organization, failed to verify information through official channels, thereby perpetuating misinformation and undermining its reputation. This lack of due diligence raises questions about Amnesty International’s commitment to accuracy and fairness.
It’s crucial to verify facts before making conclusions and Amnesty should ensure they present accurate information to maintain their credibility.
In this case, Amnesty International’s hasty condemnation of the police invitation of the two suspects was premature and unwarranted.
By failing to engage with an official source, as it appears, its impromptu action spurs unnecessary tension.
It is common knowledge that the Kano State Government has no issues with media houses or journalists.
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Instead, it recognises the critical role journalists play in promoting development and accountability as encapsulated in the 1999 Constitution as amended, which guarantees Press Freedom in Section 39 (1) and (2).Additionally, Section 22 guarantees the freedom of the press.
Against the odd, Amnesty must take steps to address its methodology and credibility concerns.
This includes engaging with official sources, verifying information through multiple channels, and avoiding hasty conclusions and condemnation.
Only by so doing can the organization regain its credibility as impartial human rights advocate.
The State government, in particular, acknowledges journalists as major stakeholders, bedrocks, and pillars of democracy and is committed to transparency and accountability. Collaboration, not confrontation, is the way forward. By working together, the government and journalists can provide essential information to the public, addressing the “oils and waters” of development challenges.
Naturally, every human on the surface of the earth might have or develop some glaring err, so Waiya is not an exception.
It’s only God the Supreme that doesn’t err, As a vibrant human rights advocate, activist, and media acquaintance, Waiya possesses the enigmatic leadership skills to transform the journalism profession With his exceptional stamina, he is poised to re-energize and revitalize the industry and take it to new heights.
As a seasoned media acquaintance and advocate, Waiya brings a unique blend of expertise, passion, and commitment to bear on his job.
His leadership is a beacon of hope for a more robust, responsible, and respected journalism profession in Kano State.
As Waiya navigates the complexities of his new role, he should remain steadfast in his dedication to the principles of journalism, human rights, and democracy. His unwavering commitment to the truth, coupled with his exceptional leadership skills, makes him an exemplary figure in the journalism profession. With Waiya at the helm, the future of journalism in Kano State looks brighter than ever.
In conclusion, to cut the story short, It is instructive to note that the Kano State Government values the role of journalists in promoting development and accountability.
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With guided principles and a commitment to transparency, the government is eager to collaborate with media houses and journalists to drive progress in Kano State.
Aminu writes from Kano
