Executive Director, Media Rights Agenda, (MRA), Edetaen Ojo, has called on journalists and media professionals to be mindful of the language they employ in reportage or presentation.
This is because such words can either challenge stigma and discrimination or perpetuate harmful stereotypes against persons with disabilities across Nigeria.
Ojo made the call during the second day of a training organized by TAF Africa for selected journalists in the state to build their capacity for inclusive reporting ahead of Anambra gubernatorial election.
TAF Africa is a non-governmental Organization championing disability inclusion, running the Able2Vote Campaign funded under the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Program.
“He said, when it comes to issues of disability, the language of the media is not just a tool for communication. It helps to build trust or add to the existing stereotypes against PWDs.
According to him, the media plays a crucial role not only in informing the public but also in influencing perceptions, trust and civic behavior.
Consequently, the media narratives influence how disability is understood and can determine the level of participation of PWDs in the forthcoming governorship election.
He explained that ethical electoral reporting is anchored on accuracy, impartiality, fairness and the use of inclusive language.
Election reporting
Ojo said, “In the contexts of elections and electoral processes, inclusive language is important because it helps to challenge stereotypes and ensure fair representation.”
He added that inclusive reporting also encourages participation, builds social cohesion, as well as upholds ethical standards, and human rights.
In their separate remarks, Chairman, Joint National Association of Persons with Disabilities, (JONAPWD), Anambra State, Comrade Ugochukwu Okeke, and another participant, Mr Eze Okafor, commended the organizers for empowering the media on ethical reporting and the power of inclusive language especially during elections coverage.
