The Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Mr Gbenga Omotoso, recently explained how the state government is monitoring and tackling fakenews publications in the social media.
Speaking recently during the Citizens Accountability and Open Leadership Forum CARF, Omotoso, who was represented by Hon Oyekanmi, a director in the ministry said that Lagosians should always link up the social media platforms on” followLASG on facebook @followLASG on X- Handle, LASG on Instagram, among other social media platforms to report any suspected fakenews posted.
According to Omotoso, the attention of the ministry should be drawn by anybody in Lagos to a suspected fake news posted on the social media as some trained and certified journalists employed as public affairs officers by the state could carry out Google fact-checks on the said news.
The purpose is to find out if the publication is true or now as the ministry mentioned in the news could be contacted to verify the authencity or otherwise of the publication.
Mr. Omotoso also encouraged Lagosians to call, text or whattapp the following telephone numbers 0701361224 and 07041252261 to report and complain, make suggestions, or request for an issue to be clarify.
The forum, with the theme: Efficient Information Dissemination As A Veritable Tool for effective Participatory Governance: How Far, So Far in Lagos State? was declared open and moderated by Debo Adeniran, president of Committee for the Defense of Human Rights, CDHR.
It was held at the Rights House, on Adeniyi Jones Avenue, Ikeja, Lagos State and attracted journalists, activists, Lagos state government officials and others
In his remarks, Debo said that CARF is a bold step in CDHR and CACOL’s commitment to contribute to creating a peaceful atmosphere between the people on the demand side of governance in Lagos State and those on the supply side.
His words: “This platform was organized to create an avenue where the implementers and the beneficiaries of various government policies would come together to explain, elucidate and expatiate on areas of concern for the citizenry with a view to harmonizing different opinions on policies that are being implemented in the State”.
This event provides a forum for healthy exchanges of ideas so that the areas of friction between the government and the governed would be drastically reduced if not totally eliminated because the people would have sense of belonging and the government would have the opportunity of listening to the people and explaining their positions on diverse policy issues that may crop up at a particular time. We are convinced that this will definitely bring about harmonious relationship between the government and the governed.
Today, apart from the usual discourse, we would like to appreciate the efforts of some people and a corporate body that have played significant roles worthy of emulation in their various endeavours and interactions with the people.
Over the years, we have carried out a study which spans about five years to determine what each of the awardee had been doing for the past five years most particularly during the Pre-CARF era and more intensely when we started CARF.
The results of the study strengthened our conviction that they are not likely to change soon. Giving such award to people at the end of the year like this, is most appropriate as it is a sign of showing appreciation for their various efforts and recognition for continuously doing what earned them the award. Though one of the awardee is late, but we believe that even those that are still alive are not likely to change as the award is meant to encourage them to continue on their chosen path.
Efficient information dissemination ensures that citizens are well-informed about government policies, decisions, and actions. It bridges the gap between the government and the governed, fostering trust, transparency, and inclusivity in decision-making processes. Participatory governance thrives on this interaction; as informed citizens are better equipped to contribute meaningfully to societal development.
Efficient information dissemination is foundational to participatory governance. We believe that government must prioritize transparent, accessible, and inclusive communication strategies to empower citizens and foster trust. Addressing challenges such as the digital divide, fake news and misinformation is critical for creating a well-informed populace that actively contributes to governance and societal progress.
The idea of focusing on the state government’s policies and activities and gathering people to discuss it, is anchored on our determination to ensure that the common man on the street is not left behind by government policies and encourage an all-embracing, all-inclusive implementation of government’s policies so as to enhance the socio-economic wellbeing of the people of the State.
As I have always pointed out, it should be noted that the forum is not meant only for public servants, as it will also engage major service providers like electricity/communication providers, regulatory agencies, anti-corruption agencies, etc. from time to time as the occasion demands.
At this stage, it is important to state that CDHR and CACOL’s activities have for long been funded with subscriptions and donations from affiliates, members and patrons. It is on this basis that we are soliciting your support for the organizations. We would like to do more in the service of humanity and we are ready to partner with relevant government agencies and fraternal organizations to ensure that we continue to be the voice for the hapless citizens of the country as a whole.
Mr. Omotoso was well represented.
