The Association of Kwara Online Media Practitioners (ASKOMP) has urged its members not to allow politicians to use their platforms to spread misinformation, disinformation, fake news or hate speech as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Chairman of ASKOMP and Publisher of The Informant247, Salihu Shola Taofeek, made the call in a statement issued on Thursday.
According to the statement:
“Based on the timeline released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), campaigns for the Presidential and National Assembly elections commence on August 19, 2026. It is therefore imperative for the association to reaffirm its commitment to the core principles of professional ethics and the standards guiding journalism.
“As online media practitioners, we must not allow politicians to use our platforms to disseminate fake news, misinformation, disinformation or hate speech.
“We urge our members to refrain from publishing content capable of heating up the political space, inciting violence or undermining peaceful coexistence as electioneering campaigns commence.
“We also encourage practitioners to independently verify claims made by political parties, aspirants and candidates before publication, in order to avoid misleading the public and compromising the credibility of the media.
“Members are further encouraged to embrace conflict-sensitive reporting and responsible journalism, particularly on issues capable of generating political tension.
“ASKOMP remains committed to promoting ethical, professional and responsible online journalism that contributes to a peaceful political environment in Kwara State and Nigeria ahead of the 2027 general elections.”
