By Bilesanmi Abayomi
Three prominent media practitioners have withdrawn from the Kosofe LG Media hub, citing a perceived lack of respect and recognition by council media handlers.
The Kosofe LG Media hub, established to facilitate the dissemination of information regarding the council’s policies, programs, and projects, found itself embroiled in controversy as Kosofe Post, Kosofe Reporters, and Kosofe Inside Out opted out of the platform.
Citing recurring instances of last-minute invitations to government activities and a perceived lack of honor by council media handlers, the departing practitioners expressed frustration with the manner in which they were being engaged. As stalwarts of the fourth estate, they emphasized their responsibility to provide timely and accurate information to the public, underscoring the importance of mutual respect and collaboration in achieving this objective.
Furthermore, Kosofe Post declared its decision to refrain from using press releases issued by the Kosofe Local Government without prior consultation with its members, signaling a shift in the dynamics of media-government relations within the region.
One of the grievances highlighted by the media practitioners was the alleged non-payment for coverage of events sponsored by the council, such as the South West Agenda for Asiwaju (SWAGA) Kosofe chapter launching. Despite providing extensive coverage over the course of a year, journalists were purportedly left uncompensated, with a paltry monthly impress of ₦20,000 deemed inadequate.
Moreover, concerns were raised regarding the disparity in honorarium payments, with the parent council, Agboyi Ketu, and Ikosi-Isheri LCDAs reportedly offering the lowest remuneration and exhibiting a tendency to default on payment obligations.