As the 2022 gubernatorial elections in Ekiti and Osun approach, members of the press wishing to cover the exercises have been charged to be professional in discharging their duties.

The charge came from various stakeholders who spoke on various topics related to reporting on the election process at a three-day media training session organized by the Media Support Center (MSC) in conjunction with the OON Project of the CJID, in Osogbo, the capital of Osun.

The training, which began on Friday and will be concluded on Sunday, has in attendance, broadcast, print and online journalists from Ekiti and Osun states respectively.

The experts in the different subjects spoke about the need for journalists to be fully prepared and security conscious during the election campaign leading up to election day and post election period.

Shakirudeen Bankole, a communication and media expert speaking on the topic of “Leveraging on Social and Citizen Engagement,” urged journalists to take advantage of the power of social media, which can help expand their reports to billions of users around the world reach.

He also urged them to be alert to reports that could create tension on social media.

Olukayode Thomas, a veteran journalist, in his own presentation “Understanding Political Campaigns and Campaign Financing” emphasized the need for journalists to be fully involved in political party election campaigns.

Thomas, who exposed journalists to newly approved campaign funds for all political offices, said they should report their spending so it complies with the Independent National Electoral Commission’s law.

Mikhail Mumuni, who spoke about tips on security mechanisms in election reporting and sensitivity in interview situations, also called on journalists to beware of interviews that could endanger their lives.

Mr Martins Alamu, a veteran journalist, spoke on why journalist should not join politicians in creating tension during the election, saying journalists are expected to report appropriately devoid sensationalism.

He however encouraged security agencies to be up and doing during the election. He said, “Law enforcement agents should ensured that any form of violence is prevented before, during and after election.”

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