The Kaduna Peace Commission Chairman, Bishop Idowu Feran urged journalists on the need to be more focused and dedicated in reporting peace building stories and help to expose fake political and Religious leaders.
The Cleric made this known in an interactive session with the Kaduna Network of Peace Journalists (NPJ), adding that some religious leaders use religion for self-benefit.
He said by charged the Journalists to help expose political and fake religious leaders who are in the habit of using religion to create divisions and instigate crisis.
Adding that, Kaduna state and other Northern regions are confronted with issues affecting peace and stability, such as banditry, ethnic and religious and fake news amongst others.
Idowu assured that the commission would live up to its expectations and mandate of preventing tension, promoting understanding, and enabling an environment for all irrespective of religion and ethnic differences.
While called on journalists to avoid unverifiable reports capable of creating and instigating crisis.
The Chairman also reiterated the commission’s commitment in improving on its work and collaborating with journalists and various stakeholders across the state to ensure peace and stability.
He then called for more collective action to promote peace and security in the state.
According to him, “If there is peace in Kaduna the glory is yours, tell the truth”
He then commended the investigative aspect of Kaduna journalists in reducing tension in the state.
“The need to engage our religious leaders to do the needful so as to mitigate the crisis and enhanced peace in the society.
“Bringing religion, ethnic and culture to center In our reportage”.
Members also called on the religious leaders to preach peace to their followers so as to ensure peaceful coexistence among communities.
While also urging that the peace commission should recognize journalists that contribute to peace building, by award or likewise.
Bishop Idowu emphasized that the commission will be more deliberate in its engagement with religious leaders and all stakeholders in the State.
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