By Gabriel Ameh, The Sight News
As the countdown to the Edo State governorship election intensifies, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has called on media organizations to prioritize factual and accurate reporting.
With just 51 days left until election day, INEC has emphasized the critical role of the media in providing trustworthy information to the public, ensuring transparency and integrity in the electoral process. This directive comes as part of broader efforts to promote fair and credible elections in Edo State.
Discussing with journalists at the Commission’s third regular quarterly consultative meeting with media organizations on Monday 30th July 2024 in Abuja, INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, said factual reportage is in compliance with the ethics of journalism.
The Commission’s boss also urged journalists to continue to stand as a bulwark against fake news, misinformation and disinformation.
“I wish to remind you of your obligation as journalists to report factually and accurately about the election and electoral activities in compliance with the ethics of your noble profession.
“You should continue to be a bulwark against fake news, misinformation and disinformation and I urge you to fully comply with the Nigerian Media Code of Election Coverage”, he said.
Prof. Yakubu further enjoined journalists to comply with INEC guidelines for media accreditation available on its website.
On his part, the National President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Chris Isiguzo, called for a constitutional amendment by the National Assembly to empower INEC to conduct elections for local governments across the country.
Isiguzo stated that for the autonomy to be truly conclusive and impactful, there is a need for constitutional amendments by the National Assembly. Specifically, the relevant sections of the constitution should be amended to empower INEC to conduct elections for local governments across the country.
“Currently, INEC enjoys constitutional authority to conduct national and sub-national elections. Extending this authority to include the third tier of government will ensure uniformity, credibility, and efficiency in the electoral process”, he said.
While re-emphasizing the vital role of the media in the democratic process, Isiguzo said INEC has consistently demonstrated its commitment to transparency and accountability through robust engagement with the media.
The NUJ President further noted that the media serves as the bridge between the electoral commission and the citizens, ensuring that accurate information is disseminated, electoral processes are transparent, and the voices of the people are heard.
“This synergy between INEC and the media is crucial as we approach the off-season gubernatorial elections in Edo and Ondo states”, he added.
