By Lola Seriki-Idahosa, Kaduna
Tracereporters –Less than ten days to the general elections, the USAID, Mercy Corps in partnership with Interfaith Mediation Centre (IMC) has engaged over twenty-five journalists in conflict sensitive reporting in Kaduna.
The one day engagement with the media practitioners and representative of eleven political parties in Kaduna was held on Wednesday 15th February at Butterfly hotel, Kaduna.
In his presentation, Coverage of electoral process: A way forward, the Zonal Director Nigeria Broadcasting Corporation (NBC) Jamilu Yahaya said for Nigeria to have a free, fair and credible elections, journalists must perform the role of a peaceful agent by adhering to the principle of responsibility, accuracy and neutrality.
Also in his presentation, Conflict Sensitive Media Reportage: A reflection on the coverage of the previous elections and the forthcoming elections, by Samson of IMC advised journalists to be caution of their safety and report accuracy.
In agreement, the media and representatives of political parties in Kaduna state affirm the following
“We commit to peaceful elections, devoid of incitement and personal insults to opposing parties that may lead to violence.
“We commit to accepting the outcome of the elections, as long as it is adjudged free fair transparent and credible.
“That we will use constructive dialogues as a mechanism for resolving issues among us.
“Work with security agencies and other stakeholders to ensure that criminal elements are properly handled according to the electoral laws of Nigeria.
“To play our parts as agents of Early Warning, by providing timely security information to relevant authorities to mitigate potential threats and prevent election violence.
SIGN :Representatives of 11 political parties.
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