Director, Health of Mother Earth Foundation (HOMEF), Rev. Nnimmo Bassey, has urged journalists to hold politicians accountable for the protection of the environment.
Bassey stated this on Thursday, July 4, 2024, in Benin, during a two-day programme organised by the International Press Centre, entitled: “Media Dialogue and Stakeholders Interface on Credible Edo Governorship Election”.
Presenting a lecture titled: “The People in Edo Governorship Election: What Issues and What Agenda for the Media”, Bassey reiterated that the media should play a crucial role in shaping public discourse during elections.
“As the Edo governorship election approaches, the media must work to ensure that environmental protection becomes a central issue.
“There are issues of gas flaring in areas like Gelegele in Edo, the provision of safe drinking water, illegal mining and protection of the forests.
“The media should ask the governorship candidates how they intend to tackle these challenges if elected governor.
“These are tangible problems that affect the health and livelihoods of the people in Edo and beyond,” he said.
He said that by focusing on environmental issues, journalists could help shift the narrative towards sustainability and long-term well-being.
“The benefits of prioritising environmental protection in political agendas are manifold. A healthy environment leads to healthier communities,” he said.
The programme was supported by the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGNII).
By Joy Odigie
