August 18, (THEWILL) – A University Don, Professor Abubakar Mu’azu, has charged media practitioners operating in Borno State and other Northeastern states of Nigeria, to amplify the voices of vulnerable people affected by the 15-year violent conflict in the country.
Prof. Mu’azu, who is the Coordinator of Good Governance and Human Rights at the Centre for Peace, Diplomatic, and Development Studies (CPDDS), noted that the insurgency has had a devastating impact on communities in Borno State, with millions of people displaced and their means of livelihood affected.
Speaking during a one-day training programme for selected journalists on Transitional Justice, organised by the Allamin Foundation for Peace and Development, held in Maiduguri on Saturday, Prof. Mu’azu said it is imperative to call on journalists in Borno State to amplify the voices of survivors of the Boko Haram insurgency and promote transitional justice.
He emphasised the crucial role of the media in advocating for survivors’ rights, noting that journalists should report on survivors’ issues with a problem-solving approach, avoiding stigma and danger.
“The media has a responsibility to ensure that the stories of survivors are told. This includes exploring solutions, amplifying survivors’ voices, and promoting a supportive environment. The situation is grave and requires urgent attention from all stakeholders, especially the journalists in the state.
“You have a responsibility to ensure their rights are protected,” he told media practitioners at the event, adding that “by highlighting supportive organisations, policy changes, and stories of resilience, the media can create a positive narrative, emphasising survivors’ strength and agency rather than vulnerability”.
Also speaking, Hamsatu Allamin, the Executive Director of Allamin Foundation, appealed to journalists to join forces with her organisation to promote transitional justice and accountability in Borno State.
“I am elated with what I have seen here. I believe together we can change the narratives and give more voices to the victims and survivors of insurgency. We believe the media has a critical role to play in promoting transitional justice and accountability in Borno State
“The Allamin Foundation has been working in Borno State for several years, providing support to survivors of insurgency and promoting peace and development in the region,” she said.
The training programme, supported by UKAID, aimed to equip journalists with the skills and knowledge needed to effectively advocate for survivors’ rights and promote a culture of justice and accountability.
I am Ladi Dapson, a general writer with thewill. I cover Borno and Yobe states respectively.
I based Maiduguri, Borno State Capital.
I can be reached via [email protected].
Very high and kind regards!
