Sokoto TV station trains journalists ahead of 2027 elections

From Bashir Rabe Mani, Sokoto

Ahead of the official August 19 commencement date for presidential campaigns, ALU TV International Nigeria held a one-day workshop in Sokoto on Saturday, to equip its newsroom staff with essential tools for responsible election coverage.

The workshop, themed “Media and Elections: Roles, Ethics and Professional Responsibilities Ahead of the 2027 General Elections,” focused on protecting coverage against political bias, hate speech, and unverified claims as electioneering activities ramp up nationwide.

General Manager Bashar Abubakar urged news crews to remain fair, accurate, and resistant to external interference, emphasizing that credible reporting is necessary to preserve public peace and democratic integrity.

Abubakar expressed appreciation to the station’s founder, Sen. Aliyu Magatakarda Wamakko, for supporting ongoing professional development, while newsroom participants pledged to apply the lessons learned across their coverage of the upcoming election cycle.

ccording to him, the modules addressed newsroom ethics during live political rallies, strict fact-checking standards, and managing balanced working relationships with political parties and candidates.

Abubakar Dangusau, Senior Special Assistant on Electronic Media to Governor Ahmed Aliyu Sokoto and Chairman of the event, praised the timing of the workshop, noting it came just days before political campaigns officially open.

Dr. Umar Magaji Umar (Sokoto State University) delivered a paper examining the media’s dual role in driving voter education and holding institutions accountable to ensure transparent elections.

Also speaking, Dalhatu Abdullahi (former NUJ Sokoto Chairman) outlined operational guidelines and safety measures for television crews on campaign grounds.

Our correspondent reports that there was a presentation of a working guide covering balanced candidate profiling, verified reporting, and conflict-sensitive reporting.