The International Press Centre, IPC, has called on journalists and other media professionals covering the September 21 governorship election in Edo to pay deserved attention to their safety.
The Executive Director of the IPC, Mr Lanre Arogundade made the call on Thursday via a statement by Melody Akinjiyan, the Press Freedom Officer to the centre.
Arogundade urged security operatives and other stakeholders that would be involved in the election to ensure the safety of journalists.
He said the call was necessary because of the consistent trend of journalists being victims of attacks during the election period.
He also expressed concerns about conflicts and tension between political actors and other players in the electoral process in the state.
He, however, called on other stakeholders, especially the security agencies to undertake their tasks in a very professional manner.
He also urged the Inspector General of Police to advise officers and men on the field, to protect accredited journalists, because the media was a critical part of the electoral process.
He said journalists should be accorded due rights and privileges to enable them carry out their social obligations as partners in enshrining the credibility of the electoral process.
“It is very important for journalists covering the Edo election to be safety conscious in the discharge of their duties, and to avoid situations that will put them in danger.
“Journalists are expected to take into consideration some safety measures while on the field,” the executive director said.
