The Federal government has
declared hate speech as an act of terrorism and warned that it will, henceforth,
prosecute those who indulge in the practice.
Minister of Information and
Culture, Alhaji Lai Mohammed, said henceforth, offenders of dangerous comments
would be treated in accordance with the 2011 terrorism Act.
According to a report by
Guardian, the minister who spoke yesterday at the second National Conference of
the Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) in Kano, reminded that government
directive from National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to sanction any broadcast
station who allows its airwave to be used as medium for promotion of hate
speeches, is still in place.
According to Mohammed, the
Federal Government has continued to promote ethical standard and the core
responsibility of the Journalism profession, but an attempt to circumvent its
rightful position in the society could be inimical to the national cohesion.He
said the media as moulder of public view has huge responsibility of preserving
national unity, public values and peaceful co-existence.
As gatekeeper, the media is
expected in high hope to build responsible and lead vibrant societal
development devoid of dangerous and hate speeches. The Federal Government will
continue to promote and uphold ethical standard.”
Besides, a member representing
Gumel, Gagarawa Megatiri federal constituency at the House of Representatives,
Mohammad Sani Soro advocated legislative intervention on social media to check
the devastating act of hate speeches on the platform.
NUJ President Abdulwaheed Odusile
cautioned members while exercising their powers on desks to be mindful of
national interest.“ As journalists and editors, we have the responsibility to
keep out all manners of hate speeches and filter any traces inimical to our peaceful
coexistence as a nation.‘’
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