….All Media Appearances Must be Target Driven
In order to prevent uncoordinated and counterproductive media exposure of political office holders and ensure that they are well guided, Oyo State Government, through the Secretary to the State Government, Mrs Olubamiwo Adeosun, has laid down the guidelines on media appearances for all public office holders in the state.
This is contrary to what was circulated on social media that Governor Seyi Makinde has banned all political office holders from granting TV and Radio interviews.
The guidelines are contained in a circular letter sent to all officials of the state government on 24th September, 2020.
The circular reads:
“All media appearances by public office holders must be target driven Public office holders who wish to appear on radio/television programs must secure the approval of His Excellency through the Secretary to the State Government via His Excellency’s the Governor’s Media Department. Officers of State l.e the Secretary to the State Government, Chief of Staff, Head of Service, Deputy Chief of Staff are to engage in media appearances strategically and sparingly.
“Honourable Commissioners, Director Generals, Chairmen of Boards/Parastatals and State Government spokespersons that engage in media appearances must
restrict them to issues affecting their Ministries, Departments and Agencies. They must not appear on crossfire or confrontational programs.
“Public office holders who wish to engage in media appearances to speak about the administration, project initiatives or counter wrong narratives must be encouraged to request for at least 5 days notice from the media house.”
“The notice period must then be used to secure the necessary approval and engage His Excellency’s Media Unit to prepare for any possible, emerging or contending questions ahead of the media appearance.”
“Public office holders scheduled to appear on media programs must be familiar with the idiosyncrasies of the media house/anchor in question.”
“Political office holders must understand that the media is the most viable vehicle through which government activities can be communicated and they must adapt to the terrain while being flxible.”
“It is important for all acted Government officials to comply with these guidelines order to prevent embarrassment to their persons and the State Government.”
