Campus News

Alooma canvasses responsible journalism

By Isaac Lewu

The Station Manager of UNILORIN 89.3 FM, Mr Idris Akintola Ibrahim (Alooma) has called for the proper use of the media landscape to enhance national peace and development.

Mr Alooma stated this last Tuesday(June 17, 2025) while speaking at the maiden edition of the Law Student Society (LSS).

Speaking on the theme of the event “The Power of Public Pressure: How Social Technology and Journalism are Driving Change Beyond the Courtroom,” the ace broadcaster  underscored the pivotal role of journalism and social media in civic engagement.

Mr Alooma noted that these platforms have transformed ephemeral outrage into sustained national reform movements, citing the EndSARS protests and the #BringBackOurGirls campaign as prime examples. He described social media as a potent tool for engagement and public mobilisation, emphasising that journalism is a divine act of communication.

The media practitioner, who highlighted the growth of radio stations in Nigeria from one to about 1,000 and in Kwara State from 1 to 28, cautioned against “yellow journalism” (sensationalism) and uninvestigated citizen journalism reports.

He encouraged students to view journalism as a mission driven by passion and dedication, rather than just an academic pursuit.

The renowned broadcaster added that media practitioners set agendas and hold those in positions of authority accountable to the people.

Recalling that the UNILORIN 89.3 FM has trained over 5,000 students since its establishment in 2009, Mr Alooma invited interested participants to join the internship programme of the station as a way of taking a voyage into the world of journalism.

The veteran journalist  emphasised that young journalists can positively influence and reshape society through various media platforms, including radio, blogs, and podcasting.

Also speaking, the Editor-in-Chief of the LSS Press, Miss Faidat Oluwapelumi Adio, a 400-Level Common Law student, expressed joy at the successful hosting of the maiden edition of the Press Week.

She described the day as a celebration of student journalism and its relevance to legal education and advocacy.

Miss Adio encouraged students to continue using journalism as a tool for awareness, advocacy, and accountability, emphasising the importance of passion and commitment in reporting facts and shaping opinion.

A lecturer at the Department of Public Law, University of Ilorin, Mr Adebayo Seye Thompson, warned that if social media continues to go unchecked, it could escalate into a significant societal challenge.

Mr Thompson stressed that while technology offers opportunities for awareness and mobilisation, it must be used responsibly.

He explained that journalism remains an ethical obligation and must not be distorted by misinformation or abuse of public platforms.

He further emphasised that the right to know is inseparable from the right to the truth, cautioning that journalists must balance speed with accuracy. He encouraged the students to treat journalism not just as a course of study but as a civic duty to society. “Information is power,” he said, “but only when it is verified and used correctly.”

The highlights of the event included the unveiling of the maiden edition of its annual publication, Lex Vox, titled “Unfiltered Truth” alongside the launch of its official website.