Osun Election: NUJ calls for safety of journalists covering polls

The Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Osun State has called for enhanced safety measures for journalists covering the upcoming governorship election. The union urged political parties, security agencies, election officials, and other stakeholders to protect journalists from intimidation, harassment, assault, arrest, or obstruction.

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journalists must be allowed to carry out their duties without intimidation, harassment, assault, arrest or obstruction.

In a statement signed by its Chairman, Adeyemi Aboderin, and Secretary, Olalekan Akindoju, the NUJ emphasized that journalists must be allowed to perform their duties without interference. The union also advised journalists to prioritize their personal safety, avoid confrontations, and promptly report any incidents that threaten their ability to work.

To aid in documenting and reporting safety concerns, the NUJ encouraged journalists to utilize the WaFlo WhatsApp-enabled live election incident reporting system. This AI-assisted platform allows for the reporting and documentation of threats, harassment, attacks, detentions, equipment seizures, and other forms of interference. Journalists can access the system via a designated WhatsApp prompt or by sending "safemedia" to a specific number.

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prioritise their safety, avoid confrontations and promptly report any incident that threatens their safety or ability to work.

The NUJ stressed the importance of recognizing journalists as vital participants in the democratic process and called on security agencies to provide adequate protection at polling units, collation centers, and other election locations. The union also urged journalists to maintain professionalism, impartiality, and accuracy throughout their coverage, emphasizing that collaboration among all stakeholders is crucial for preserving peace and ensuring voters can exercise their rights freely while journalists report safely.

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recognise journalists as important participants in the democratic process and provide adequate protection at polling units, collation centres and other election locations.