From Suleiman Lawal, Lafia
Journalists have been urged to use non-provocative language in their reports to prevent unrest among their audiences. Dawop Danjuma Saidu, the Lead Partner at Mercy Corps, made this call during a conflict-sensitive reporting workshop held in Makurdi for journalists from Nasarawa and Benue States.
Saidu emphasized the critical role of the media in conflict resolution, urging journalists to leverage their professionalism to educate, entertain, and encourage peaceful coexistence through careful and soft language. He highlighted the importance of objective reporting in fostering a conflict-free society in Nigeria.
According to Saidu, the media must avoid indulging in religious, ethnic, or political biases to help build a peaceful society. He stressed that conflict resolution requires more than superficial efforts and that the media’s participation is essential in bringing communities and individuals together for lasting peace.
He urged media practitioners to remain neutral and factual in their reporting, particularly in conflict situations, warning that biased headlines and reporting can exacerbate crises. Saidu reaffirmed Mercy Corps’ commitment, in collaboration with partners in Nasarawa and Benue States, to training journalists on conflict resolution. He also noted that understanding the sources of conflict is crucial before reporting.
Saidu lamented that opinion pieces often fuel crises in communities and appealed to journalists to stay neutral and adhere to factual reporting to help prevent further conflicts.
