Catholic Bishop tasks media practitioners on professional conduct

By Ibrahim Kado

Bishop Damin Mamza, Catholic Bishop of Yola Diocese,  has charged media practitioners to abide by professional conduct and shun reportage that may course disharmony in the society.

Mamza, who is also the Chairman, Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Adamawa chapter, made the call on Sunday at Saint Joseph Catholic Church Damilu, Yola, in commemoration of the 57th World Social Communication Week.

Mamza said it was good for media practitioners to communicate the truth and real situation on ground.

He thanked and appreciated the media for their contribution of spreading the gospel in the state and the world in general.

He advised Christian communities to take advantage of the social media and not to abuse it for whatever reason.

According to him, it is easier to abuse social media than conventional media.

“The media should be used  responsibly, either the social or conventional media should be used with sense of responsibility.

“If you forward messages anyhow, some times it can bring violence within the community. So, people should use the media responsibly.

“Let it be used to create harmony, good relationship, love within the community and reconciliation among our people.

“It should not be used negatively, it should be used positively since it is something that is meant for good,” he said.

The Bishop further advised people to desist from forwarding everything on social media as there are some messages that need to be verified  before sharing.

“Please try to understand the content of the message, who sent it, for what purpose and what effect the message can have on the community before you can forward it.

“And if the message has no effect, please desist from forwarding such messages”, he said.

Mamza also urged people to always speak with truth from their hearts to promote peaceful coexistence and harmony.

(NAN)