ASKOMP Charges Journalists to Uphold Ethics, Objectivity Ahead of 2027 Polls
By Kaosara Olayemi Oladimeji
The Association of Kwara Online Media Practitioners (ASKOMP) has urged journalists in the state to maintain professionalism, objectivity, and ethical reporting as the 2027 general elections draw closer.
The call was made at ASKOMP’s maiden media roundtable held on Friday at the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) Press Centre, Ilorin, under the theme: “Kwara 2027: Media, Politics, and the Search for Credible Leadership.”
Comrade Salihu Shola Taofeeq, Chairman of ASKOMP, said the event was organised to prepare media practitioners for the surge of political activities already unfolding in the state, despite campaigns not having officially commenced.
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He noted that political alliances, propaganda, and sponsored narratives are emerging alongside legitimate democratic engagement, stressing that the media has a decisive role in shaping public perception.
“Information control is a powerful responsibility that can either strengthen or undermine democracy,” he said.
Taofeeq stressed the growing influence of online media, noting that elections are now contested on social media platforms, blogs, and messaging apps, where speed and virality often challenge accuracy.
He urged journalists to resist sensationalism and political patronage, and to remain committed to truth, fairness, and credibility.
Speaking at the event, Dr. Bakare Rafiu, Deputy Director, Institute for Legislative Studies, University of Ibadan, warned against letting personal emotions and sentiments distort political reporting.
He said credible journalism is key to enabling citizens make informed political choices and fostering good governance in the state.
