The Association of Kwara Online Media Practitioners (ASKOMP) has urged its members not to allow politicians to use their media platforms to spread misinformation, disinformation and hate speech as political activities gather momentum ahead of the 2027 general elections.
ASKOMP Chairman and Publisher of Theinformant247, Salihu Shola Taofeek, made the call in a statement issued on Thursday.
Taofeek said the appeal became necessary as political campaigns for the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections officially commenced on August 19, 2026, in line with the timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
He stressed the need for online media practitioners to uphold professional ethics and journalism standards throughout the electioneering period.
“ As Online Media Practitioners, we must not allow politicians to use our platforms to spread fake news, misinformation, disinformation and hate speeches,” he said.
The ASKOMP chairman urged members to avoid publishing contents capable of heating up the political atmosphere or promoting violence as political parties and their candidates intensify their campaigns.
He also called on online publishers and journalists to subject claims made by political parties and candidates to proper verification before publication, stressing that the media must not become a channel for misleading the public.
According to him, responsible and accurate reporting is crucial to ensuring that citizens have access to credible information to make informed decisions during the electoral process.
Taofeek further encouraged members to embrace conflict-sensitive journalism and ensure that their reports contribute to peace, tolerance and responsible political engagement.
He said ASKOMP remained committed to promoting professionalism and ethical standards among online media practitioners in Kwara State, particularly as the state prepares for the 2027 general elections.
He called on all members to use their platforms to promote peaceful political participation and democratic values rather than contents capable of deepening divisions among citizens.
