Adeleke warns radio stations, politicians over inciting remarks

By Deborah Oladejo, Osogbo –

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has warned radio stations operating within the state to desist from serving as platforms for inciting violence and violating national broadcasting regulations.

He also cautioned opposition politicians against making statements capable of inciting unrest or encouraging the public to take the law into their own hands following the recent judicial pronouncement on local government leadership.

In a statement issued by his spokesperson, Mallam Olawale Rasheed, the governor expressed displeasure over the increasing tendency of some stations to allow guests to make inflammatory comments and unsubstantiated allegations without granting the right of response to those accused.

Adeleke further condemned the failure of these stations to caution guests making libelous or seditious allegations against public officials while denying affected individuals fair hearing.

He has directed the Commissioner for Information and Public Enlightenment, Kolapo Alimi, to summon the general managers of the affected stations for a formal briefing.

While reiterating his administration’s respect for press freedom, Adeleke emphasized that media houses must operate within the bounds of responsible journalism and national regulation, warning of sanctions for any station that flouts broadcasting rules.

He also condemned recent interviews by opposition politicians who openly threatened chaos over the appellate court’s decision, warning that law enforcement agencies would deal decisively with troublemakers.

Adeleke added, “We urge our people to be law-abiding. The local government issue is being resolved without further bloodshed. Those promoting violence will face the law at the right time.”