By
Bamanga Abdullahi Gombi
The Adamawa State Chapter of Muslim Media Practitioners says it is working to promote truth, unity and development through ethical journalism.
The State Chairman, Comrade Shehu Aliyu, who disclosed this in an interview with Radio Nigeria said the association is working to bridge the gaps in the media practice, and improve journalism without violating anyone’s rights or dignity.
Comrade Shehu Aliyu said the group is taking media to the grassroots by visiting neglected communities to give them a voice in the interest of ensuring fair and accurate reporting.
He said quarterly workshops are being organised to help sensitize members on the dangers of spreading fake news, stressing that those found spreading false information are outrightly suspended from the association.
This according to him is in line with Qur’an 49:6 which says, “If a disobedience person brings you news or information, verify it.”
The Chairman added that senior journalists are mentoring young ones with a view to raising a generation that practices the profession with fear of Allah.
Similarly he said the association is working with NDLEA and Islamic scholars in sensitizing students, worshippers and commuters on the dangers of drug abuse, while using radio and social media to promote skills acquisition, farming and entrepreneurship.
Mr Aliyu therefore, appealed to government for access to information and expressed willingness to partner with NGOs for empowerment of the less previllage and deliver developmental projects in under served communities.
He emphasized the need for the public to share only verified information and keep media practitioners accountable at all times.
Also speaking, the State Secretary, Hajiya Sakina Ahmed, said the chapter has carried out several activities, such as lectures to promote unity and ethical journalism as well as on issues bordering on Islamophobia.
During the last Ramadan, she said the association gave cash donations to the needy partly from the funds realised from members’ contribution and community donations.
She said the association recently visited Kuda Village in Girei LGA where they interacted with residents on their plights and how to assist them.
Hajiya Sakina added that the association has met with media executives and keeps liaising with critical stakeholders like the Muslim Council, Pilgrims Board and NBC to seek partnership.
She listed some challenges facing the association to include lack of funds and low participation by members, as a result of their tied schedule of duty, which delay many proposals to be executed.
