Janet Samuel, Abuja
Ahead of the Edo and Ondo off-cycle Governorship elections scheduled for September and November respectively, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)has enjoined the media to continue to combat fake news and misleading narratives about the Commission and its activities
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who gave the charge during the first quarterly consultative meeting with media organizations on Thursday in Abuja, harp on the effects of fake news and misinformation in the country, urging the media to remain vigilant and serve as a defence against false narratives.
He emphasized on the commissions commitment to openness and transparency, noting that censorship is not the solution to misinformation.
“A very important reality in today’s age of information technology is the spread of fake news and misinformation instantly and on a global scale. As I said on many occasions, INEC does not believe in censorship The best antidote to fake news is greater openness and transparency.
While pointing out the importance of election primaries to the commission. INEC Boss urges media organisations to engage with Political Parties as well as their aspirants and report on the primaries with the same diligence and depth the main election was reported.
Prof. Yakubu who appreciated the media for their partnership at all time, reassured that the Commission would continue to work closely with media organizations,
He promised to ensure the safety and security of journalists and grant them unimpeded access to various locations during elections and electoral activities in the country.
In his remarks, the President, Nigerian Union of Journalists (NUJ) comrade Chris Isiguzo, who commended INEC’s commitment to electoral integrity and transparency, affirmed the media’s role as the watchdogs of democracy.
He appealed to the media to uphold the sanctity of the ballot box and safeguard the democratic aspirations of the nation.
