Ex-Nigeria’s High Commissioner To UK, Sarafa Ishola Frowns At Govt Control Of The Media
ABEOKUTA – The immediate past Nigerian High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Ambassador Sarafa Tunji Ishola has kicked against the media control by the government.
Ishola who spoke in Abeokuta on Friday called for a self-regulation of the media rather than government’s control.
The former envoy noted that a self-regulated media would perform its role professionally and earn respect of the society.
Ishola expressed concern that both traditional and social media have been polluted, and urged professionals in the industry to self-regulate to salvage the sector.
He also charged journalists to report accurately with the mindset of protecting the national security.
He also warned against abuse of social media, saying it should be used for networking and promotion of good narrative.
Ishola said “Yes, news can be reported but the ambience of the national security is important. Why? Because the world is now a global village.
“When we were young we used to see people like (Olusegun) Osoba, (Felix) Adenaike, and Peter Ajayi, we used to call them three musketeers and the profession was well respected.
“I don’t believe in the government regulation of the media, but I believe in self-regulation…just for you to earn your respect and maintain a reputation. Journalists are well respected across the world.
“And since this is the cradle of journalism in Nigeria, you have a responsibility to do that.”
The former Minister of Mines and Steel Development applauded both local and international media for contributing towards his successful administration in the UK.