LG Crisis: Adeleke Orders Probe of Osun Radio Stations Over Alleged Inciteful Comments

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has ordered a probe of the heads of some radio stations in the state for allegedly allowing opposition leaders to make inciteful and violent comments on air following the recent Appeal Court verdict on local government administration.

In a statement issued on Sunday by his spokesperson, Olawale Rasheed, the governor expressed concern that the comments made by opposition figures breached national broadcasting codes and posed a threat to public peace.

Governor Adeleke condemned the conduct of some broadcasters who, according to him, failed to uphold journalistic ethics by permitting inflammatory statements without granting fair hearing to the affected parties.

He further criticized the stations for allowing libelous and seditious allegations against public officials to go unchecked.

“The Governor expressed displeasure at the activities of some radio stations who allowed guests to incite the public to violence and also manifest disdain for fair hearing to stakeholders,” the statement read.

“He condemned the refusal to caution guests who made libelous and seditious allegations against public officials, while at the same time blocking the right to fair hearing for affected people.”

As part of immediate steps, the governor has directed the Commissioner for Information to summon the General Managers of the implicated stations for a briefing ahead of possible further actions.

While reiterating his administration’s commitment to press freedom, Adeleke emphasized the importance of adhering to broadcasting codes as a hallmark of responsible journalism. He warned that any station found guilty of violating the rules would face sanctions.

“We task our people to be law abiding. The local government question is being resolved without any further bloodletting. Those promoting violence will face the law at the right time”, the Governor was quoted as saying.