The Catholic Archbishop of Lagos, Most Rev (Dr.) Alfred Adewale Martins has urged the media to be wary of making heroes out of people of questionable characters in the society. He said it was imperative for the media to carry out due diligence on the character and true personality of their news sources before reporting stories for general consumption. He said this recently in a media chat to mark this year’s World Day of Communications held at the Holy Cross Cathedral, Lagos.
The theme for the papal message for the 54th edition is: “That you may tell your children and grandchildren (Ex. 10:2) Life becomes history” According to Archbishop Martins, there was need for the media to focus more in promoting positive stories that enhance positive growth and development, while shunning those that promote prejudices, hatred and disunity.” Such show of professionalism by media personnel, he said, would go a long way to engender peace and unity in the country. He particularly adviced against the use of the social media to promote fake news and hate speeches, urging Journalists to endeavour always to affirm, appropriate the truth in stories and circulate same widely to counter negativity. He also implored Christians to be bold to tell the story of their faith through regular evangelization.
