The effective use of indigenous languages in mass communication platforms to attract audience understanding and participation formed the kernel of discussions at a two-day International Conference on Indigenous Language Broadcasting in Nigeria, which held recently.

The House of Representatives is considering whittling down powers of the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC), especially the arbitrary fining and shutting of media outfits.

Participants at the International Press Centre’s (IPC) media roundtable and stakeholders’ forum on journalists’ safety and press freedom limitations in Nigeria held in Lagos last week have restated the need for safety of journalists to be given desired attention and utmost priority.

The Institute for Media and Society (IMS) has joined other stakeholders to condemn attack on media organisations, describing the development as a threat to freedom of expression. Executive Director of IMS, Dr Akin Akingbulu said: “While we support peaceful protests, which is a constitutionally-recognised right, we are opposed to the violation of people’s rights, including attacks on media organisations and their workers.

The Executive Director, Institute for Media and Society (IMS), Dr. Akin Akingbulu, has insisted that it is expedient for the media to be carried along in the ongoing Electoral Act review.