The International Press Centre (IPC) is launching a WhatsApp-enabled artificial intelligence incident-reporting tool, WAFLO, to monitor and document attacks against journalists ahead of the Osun State governorship election. IPC Executive Director Lanre Arogundade announces the initiative at a press conference in Osogbo and says it will run as a pilot during the election scheduled for Saturday, August 15, 2026.
According to IPC, WAFLO supports real-time reporting, verification, and documentation of incidents affecting press freedom. The tool is intended to capture cases such as assaults, threats, and other infringements on journalists’ rights while they carry out their professional duties. IPC says journalists can report safety concerns instantly so relevant stakeholders can respond promptly.
Both outlets describe the same core features and purpose, with additional context from Nigerian Eye that WAFLO is part of Component 4: Support to Media under the EU-SDGNII Programme, implemented by IPC and CEMESO in collaboration with the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ). Nigerian Eye also provides access details through a SafeMedia WhatsApp prompt or by texting “safemedia” to a specific number, and notes IPC’s call for proper accreditation and restraint from security agencies and political actors.
