By Bilesanmi Abayomi
As newly elected Chairmen across Nigeria’s local councils prepare to assume office, calls have intensified for them to exercise caution in appointing Chief Press Secretaries (CPS) and media aides, particularly amid growing concerns over unethical practices by some individuals previously entrusted with these roles.
Reports indicate that some media handlers, many of whom run personal online platforms, have been accused of sidelining independent journalists during official events, manipulating media coverage, and fraudulently altering or withholding agreed honorariums after media assignments.
Despite their high visibility and access to official proceedings, several of these aides have faced repeated allegations of shortchanging journalists, undermining not only the professional ethics of the media industry but also damaging the public image of the councils they represent.
Stakeholders have therefore urged incoming Chairmen to prioritise competence, professionalism, and integrity in selecting their media teams. They advocate for the appointment of qualified media professionals who are genuinely committed to effective communication, transparency, and the responsible promotion of the council’s activities.
“If these exploitative practices persist in the new political dispensation, we will have no choice but to begin publicly identifying those involved,” a concerned journalist warned.
The development underscores the need for a renewed emphasis on media ethics and accountability within local governance structures as new administrations take shape.