US consulate advises journalists on holding government accountable

Nathan Tamarapreye

The United States Consulate in Nigeria has urged journalists to take up their role of holding government accountable to the people as it concludes a capacity-building workshop for journalists in Bayelsa.

The workshop which highlighted and examined the critical role of the media in ensuring transparency and accountability of the government to the citizens was held virtually.

According to Mr Temitayo Famntini, an official of the Consulate, who joined participants in the virtual workshop, the training exercise was part of the post-election activities, following the Nov 16, 2019 governorship elections in Bayelsa.

The US Consulate funded the workshop organised by Media Career Development Network (MCDN) Nigeria and participants were drawn from 14 print media and broadcast journalists in Yenagoa, Bayelsa capital.

The virtual training sessions was held for a three week period.

Speaking to participants, Mr Lekan Otufodunrin, who was a resource person and facilitator reminded journalists of their social obligations as watchdogs of the society amidst daunting challenges.

Otufodunrin who is also the Executive Director, MCDN urged media practitioners to take personal responsibility for their career progress by investing in self development rather than rely on their employers.

According to him, journalists must be happy with their career to be able to play their role of holding the government accountable to the people.

He noted that career development was neglected by many media organisations and encouraged journalists to seek for training opportunities outside their various employers, adding that a career plan is fundamental.

He encouraged participants to apply for fellowships, grants and training opportunities to enable them achieve career fulfilment and prepare them for higher responsibilities within and outside the newsrooms.

Also another resource person, Prof Lai Oso, a University Lectures from Lagos State University emphasized the need for ethical conduct and safety considerations in reporting conflict scenarios.

According to him, safety of journalists in conflict situation was paramount as no story is more important than the life of the reporter.

”Journalists have a responsibility in preserving the peace in the society by reporting conflicts in a way that does not escalate the pains of the victim,” he said.