New Telegraph

AHB Condemns Media Trail, Cyberbullying Against Egungbohun

A civil society organization, Accountability Hub International (AHB), has described report against Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun by Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ) alleging that he is a smuggler as false and misleading.

AHB also condemned the recent surge in cyberbullying tactics via exploitation of social media’s porous nature to perpetrate online harassment campaigns, against innocent individuals likening them to a weapon of the opposition.

In a recent statement, Hajia Mariam Isiaka, the co-convener of  the Accountability Hub International (AHB), expressed deep concerns about the state of investigative journalism, particularly targeting the practices of FIJ.

“The integrity of journalism is being undermined by organizations that fail to uphold the fundamental principles of accuracy and impartiality,” Mariam remarked.

She pointed out that such deviations compromise the pursuit of truth, a cornerstone of democratic societies. Mariam highlighted a troubling instance involving Fisayo Soyombo, an agent of FIJ, and his controversial investigative report on Ilaro.

“This report, laden with uncorroborated accusations against Alhaji Ibrahim Dende Egungbohun and others, serves as a prime example of journalism that leans more towards sensationalism than substance,” she explained.

According to Mariam, the reliance on questionable sources and the absence of stringent fact-checking are significant flaws that erode public trust in media outputs and characterized Fisayo’s report.

Hajia Mariam also noted a discernible pattern of bias within FIJ’s reports, particularly against figures associated with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.

“An investigative body must maintain neutrality and should not appear as a partisan tool,” Mariam stated, emphasizing the importance of unbiased reporting in shaping public perception and maintaining journalistic credibility.

Hajia Mariam further criticized the FIJ for its alleged disregard of legal norms, including ignoring court summons and making baseless allegations against government officials.

“Respect for the law is fundamental in journalism just as it is in any other domain. By sidestepping legal protocols, FIJ not only discredits itself but also jeopardizes the principle of rule of law,” she articulated.

Moreover, Mariam expressed concerns about the transformation of FIJ from an investigative body to what he described as “quasi-law enforcement agents and political actors.”

She condemned the use of cyberbullying tactics and the involvement in political witch hunts, stating, “Such actions betray the core principles of journalism and transform reporters into players of political games.”

Reaffirming the need for ethical journalism, Mariam called for a rigorous reassessment of values within FIJ and other similar entities.

“It is crucial that we realign our investigative practices with the high standards of professionalism, integrity, and accountability,” he urged.

Mariam believes that restoring these values is essential for journalism to retain its role as a watchdog of democracy. In her concluding remarks, Mrs Mariam Isiaka stressed the uncompromisable nature of truth in journalism.

“As investigators of truth, we must operate without bias, ensure story balance, uphold justice, and maintain integrity in every report we produce. The role of investigative journalism is too important to be tainted by unprofessional conduct,” she affirmed.

Mariam stressed that her call to action for FIJ and similar organizations is clear reclaim and adhere to the ethical high ground of investigative journalism.

“We owe it to the public to provide information that is not only engaging but also deeply rooted in truth and fairness. Anything less is a disservice to the public and to the very essence of journalism,” she stated

She stressed that upholding the highest journalistic standards will undoubtedly be key in navigating the challenges and maintaining the trust of the public.

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