Online platforms accuse lawmakers of blackmail, call for crackdown on fake news
The Coalition of Independent Online Media Platforms has raised alarm over what it described as a growing trend of blackmail, propaganda, and abuse of oversight powers by certain members of the National Assembly, warning that such conduct threatens the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja yesterday, Chairman of the Coalition, Olubade Jimoh, alleged that some lawmakers have abandoned their constitutional duties and now operate as public relations agents for government officials facing corruption charges, while simultaneously targeting appointees who refuse to yield to their demands.
Source: Original
“It has come to our attention that certain members of the National Assembly are engaging in unprofessional conduct, including blackmail and propaganda, against government appointees who refuse to succumb to their demands,” the coalition stated.
The group cited the case of Honourable Philip Agbese, who recently made public comments exonerating former Kogi State Governor Yahaya Bello of wrongdoing, despite the matter being before a competent court. “It was Honourable to have waited for the court’s decision,” the coalition said.
Among those allegedly targeted for refusing to cooperate with the lawmakers’ demands are Dr. Dauda Lawal, Governor of Zamfara State; Senator Alkali, Minister of Transportation; and Dr. Senator Gaidam, Minister of Police Affairs. The coalition claimed that online platforms have been used to spread falsehoods against these individuals.
“They go to online mediums propagating all kinds of lies against them,” the statement read.
The coalition singled out Sahara Reporters for criticism, accusing the platform of publishing misleading reports, including a recent article about Minister Nyesom Wike and the Council of State meeting.
“Sahara Reporters should know better that Wike is not a member of the Council of State and as such cannot be in the meeting, talk more of the report of being absent because the President refused the appointment of his protégé,” the group said.
Calling for responsible journalism, the coalition urged media platforms to uphold ethical standards and verify information before publication. It also encouraged whistleblowers with credible evidence of corruption to come forward.
“We will support them in their efforts to promote transparency and accountability,” the group assured.
In a strong appeal to the presidency, the coalition demanded decisive action against individuals, including those close to the President, who are allegedly involved in these activities.
“It is essential to promote a culture of transparency, accountability, and integrity in our governance,” the statement emphasized.
The group further called on the Department of State Services (DSS) to clamp down on media outlets that publish fake and unverified reports, and announced plans to lead a protest and submit a petition to the EFCC and Police Headquarters in the coming days.
“We will ensure prosecution of the NASS members fingered in the $150 million Binance bribe saga and many other corrupt practices,” it said.
The coalition praised Premium Times and other platforms for their commitment to ethical journalism.
“Their efforts are a testament to the power of responsible journalism,” the statement added.
Source: Legit.ng
