In a groundbreaking event organized by the Hijrah Islamic Organization of Nigeria, Muslim media practitioners from various platforms convened to address the challenges posed by modern media. Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Rafiu Ajakaye and Senior Advisor Alhaji Saadu Salau emphasized the critical role of accurate reporting and adherence to Islamic ethics in the face of misinformation.
In an effort to combat the rising tide of misinformation and fake news, Muslim media practitioners worldwide received a compelling call to action at the inaugural Muslim Media Executives and Gatekeepers/Journalists’ Engagement in Ilorin.
The event, organized by the Hijrah Islamic Organization of Nigeria, brought together notable figures, media executives, and practitioners from different media organizations in Kwara State.
Chief Press Secretary to the Governor Rafiu Ajakaye, who delivered the keynote address, highlighted the urgent need for fact-checking and accuracy in reporting within the context of Islam’s ethics.
He cautioned against the rapid spread of misinformation and urged Muslim media practitioners to uphold principles of fairness, reflecting the true teachings of Islam.
“Accuracy must be our guiding principle. In an era of rapid information flow, misinformation can spread like wildfire. Muslim media practitioners must be diligent in verifying information and presenting a balanced perspective, situated within the core mandate of Islam, which is the promotion of peace and understanding within the human community,” Ajakaye emphasized.
The event also featured influential personalities, including Alhaji Saadu Salau, Senior Advisor and Counselor to Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who underscored the importance of addressing the inadequate representation of Muslims in the media industry.
Salau called for increased investment by wealthy Muslims to counter the effects of digitalization and commercialization in the media space.
In his address, Ajakaye stressed the pivotal role of Muslim media practitioners in reshaping narratives, fostering understanding, and promoting inclusivity.
He urged the community to embrace the challenges posed by modern media and deploy its influence positively for the advancement of the Islamic agenda.
Notably, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Media, Alhaji Bashir Adigun, commended the organizers for their initiative and emphasized the impact of the entertainment industry on influencing the youth.
The event concluded with a call for attitudinal change, unity, and a commitment to fostering a media environment that promotes understanding, unity, and respect.