Adeleke warns radio stations against breach of broadcasting codes

Governor Ademola Adeleke of Osun State has issued a stern warning to radio stations in the state toi desist from breaching national broadcasting codes and allowing inciting rhetoric on air.

In a statement  by his Chief Press Secretary, Olawale Rasheed,  in Osogbo, the governor expressed deep concern over what he described as the increasing use of radio platforms to incite violence and spread misinformation, particularly in the wake of recent judicial rulings on the contentious local government leadership issue.

Governor Adeleke criticized certain radio stations for permitting guests to make libelous and seditious statements against public officials without offering a fair hearing or response opportunity to those affected. He condemned the failure of these stations to exercise editorial responsibility by not cautioning their guests, noting that such conduct undermines the ethics of professional journalism.

To address the situation, the governor has directed the Commissioner for Information to summon the General Managers of the implicated radio stations for a briefing. He warned that further regulatory actions may follow if the violations persist.

While reaffirming his administration’s commitment to press freedom, Adeleke emphasized that responsible journalism must align with established broadcasting standards. He vowed to enforce sanctions against any media outlet that continues to violate the code of conduct governing the broadcast industry.

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In a related development, the governor also cautioned opposition politicians against making inflammatory statements in response to the recent Court of Appeal decision on the local government dispute. He described such comments as dangerous and irresponsible, warning that law enforcement agencies would take firm action against anyone inciting unrest.

“The rule of law remains the only acceptable path to resolving political disputes,” Adeleke stated. “Those threatening violence for political gain are not only enemies of the state but also of democracy itself.”

He urged the people of Osun State to remain calm and law-abiding, stressing that peace and dialogue, not provocation, are the way forward.

“The local government issue is being addressed within the bounds of the law. There is no need for further bloodshed. Anyone promoting violence will face the full weight of the law,” the governor concluded.