Maiyaki identified “fake news” and misinformation as part of multiple layers that were a threat to freedom of expression as a driver to other human rights.
The MDINIGERIA boss in a statement released to newsmen in Kaduna on Wednesday noted that the theme of the 2023 World Press Day: ‘Shaping a Future of Rights: Freedom of expression as a driver for all other human rights,’ was not only instructive, but also timely as it signified the enabling element of freedom of expression to enjoy and protect all other human rights.
“Though the World Press ranking of nations is key towards engendering democratic ideals and media freedom…fake news and misinformation have emerged as a greater threat to freedom of expression, media practice and enduring democracy,” he said.
Maiyaki also admonished media practitioners to be cautious of their sources through fact-checking and verification to avoid credibility and reputational crises, “especially with new trends in new media, disinformation tactics such as doctored images or voice accusations spread by people using fake identities is spreading fast unethically.”
According to him, while the entire world is concerned over the risks faced by journalists in the practice of their job, we must also be concerned about the professional conducts of practitioners in shaping a future of rights by professional conduct and ethical journalism.
“Journalists must be guided by professional ethics and protection of public interest through accurate information gathering and dissemination that guarantees peace and stability; as a deliberate action of promoting freedom of expression,” he added.
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