The International Press Centre (IPC), Nigeria, on Thursday, urged journalists as well as other stakeholders that would be on electoral duty during the governorship election in Edo State on Saturday to pay optimal attention to their safety.

While specifically enjoining security operatives to help ensure the safety of journalists, the IPC’s Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, disclosed that the call was imperative due to the consistent trend of journalists being victims of attacks during the election period and the conflicts and tension by political actors and other players in the electoral process in the state.

In a statement issued and signed by Melody Akinjiyan, the Press Freedom Officer of IPC, Arogundade said, “It is very important for journalists covering the Edo State 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, he said, adding that they should internalize tips such as “Be non-partisan, don’t walk or move alone, Be INEC accredited, and have your organizational identity card. Be brave and smart. i.e., cover violent situations from a reasonable distance, handle classified information appropriately

Arogundade also admonished other stakeholders, especially the security agencies, to undertake their tasks in a very professional manner.

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He urged the Inspector General of Police to advise officers and men on the field to protect accredited journalists because the media is a critical part of the electoral process and journalists should be accorded due rights and privileges to enable them to carry out their social obligations as partners in enshrining the credibility of the electoral process.

“Other stakeholders, including election observers, should also proactively provide journalists covering the elections with information to ensure that all work together for the success of the elections,” Mr. Arogundade added.

As part of initiatives to keep tabs on the safety of journalists, IPC said that there are safety alert officers who journalists under threat or attack can report to via calls or messages. The concerned officers: Melody Akinjiyan (Press Freedom Officer, IPC): 08132776441; Olutoyin Ayoade (Communication Officer, IPC): 08114503887

Arogundade also enjoined journalists to report any threats to the Edo State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists.