By: Mercy Peter
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), on Wednesday tasked the media organisations on the need to give factual and accurate reports during elections.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, said factual reportage is in compliance with the ethics of journalism.
Prof. Yakubu also called on journalists to continue to stand as a bulwark against fake news, misinformation and disinformation.
He made the call at the Commission’s third regular quarterly consultative meeting with media on Wedbesday in Abuja.
He said: “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. I urge you to fully comply with the Nigerian Media Code of Election Coverage”, he said.
Yakubu also urged journalists to comply with INEC guidelines for media accreditation available on its website.
The National President of Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Chris Isiguzo called for a constitutional amendment by the National Assembly to empower INEC to conduct elections for Local Governments across the country.
Isiguzo insisted that for the Local Government autonomy to be complet, INEC should take charge of council elections
He said: “For this 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.
“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.”
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 said that the media will 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.
