Ahead of the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states, the Centre for Democracy and Development(CDD ), has trained journalists on the use of Meedan tools to counter election misinformation and disinformation.
Meedan is a technology that builds an open-source software platform for fact-checking and content annotation. It also runs a service that brings together public health professionals’ concepts on request for journalists, fact-checking organisations, and media outlets.
“Our focus is on how to use an innovative tool known as Meedan Check to enhance our efforts in countering disinformation,” said CDD fact-checking lead, Armsfree Ajanaku.
While stressing the critical role of journalists in disseminating accurate information, Ajanaku said “we cannot underestimate the threat posed by misinformation and disinformation.”
Calling for collective actions to address the menace, he said; “Only yesterday, we saw how even official communication from the highest office in the land could result in the misinformation of citizens.
“There are a plethora of other instances that make it imperative for us as journalists and information managers to be vigilant and circumspect when we share information.”
Ajanaku further explained that information disorder during elections is capable of sparking chain reactions, which could either lead to a breakdown of law and order or distrust in democratic institutions.
He added that the menace could also cause voters to stay away from casting their ballots in elections.
“As we build up to the off-cycle governorship elections in Edo and Ondo State, scheduled for September 21 and November 16, 2024, therefore, CDD strongly believes in working closely with the media to counter disinformation in all its ramifications. It is to start the process of achieving this goal that we are hosting this Breakfast Session on the Meedan tool.
“We similarly look forward to your support in helping to publicise the Meedan tool by letting the public know they can report claims through Meedan Check, and those claims will be verified in a timely manner,” Ajanaku said.