Chairman of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival Committee, Hon. Segun Dokun Odebunmi, has urged media practitioners to be partners in progress by promoting content that supports peace, development, and investor confidence in ogbomoso and Oyo State.
Odebunmi made the appeal against the backdrop of what he described as attempts by certain individuals to circulate negative content aimed at discouraging participation in the highly anticipated second edition of the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival, scheduled for December 18–22.
In a statement signed by the Media Committee, Odebunmi cautioned against the deliberate spread of narratives portraying Ogbomoso or any community as unsafe or insecure, stressing that such misinformation could scare away investors, tourists, and participants.
While assuring the public that adequate security measures have been put in place for the event, Odebunmi revealed that the security committee established by His Imperial Majesty, Oba Ghandi Afolabi Olaoye, is working closely with relevant security agencies to ensure that Ogbomoso remains safe, peaceful, and conducive for investors and visitors during the carnival and beyond.
He emphasized, however, that the call for responsible reporting was not a request for journalists to ignore criminal incidents. Rather, he urged media professionals to ensure that information released to the public is properly verified, factual, and responsibly presented, with consideration for the collective goal of building a safer and more cohesive society.
Odebunmi further advised journalists, content creators, and social media influencers not to allow themselves to be used to create fear, trigger panic, or disrupt public peace. He noted that the media plays a pivotal role in shaping public perception and supporting developmental initiatives such as the Ogbomoso Cradles Carnival.
