INEC: 892 Journalists Applied To Cover Edo Guber

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said a total of 892 media personnel from 122 organisations, have applied to cover the September 21 Edo governorship election.

The media accreditation for the election, which began on July 8, ended on on Thursday, September 5.

Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee of INEC Sam Olumekun, at a press conference on Friday, however said the “Number may reduce as some organisations who applied for a specific number did not nominate up to that particular number on the portal.”

Olumekun who is also INEC National Commissioner, disclosed that while some media organisations applied, got approval, but “for some reason did not conclude the process on our portal.”

He advised journalists to guard against fake news and misinformation, especially during an election period.

The National Commissioner who was represented by Director, Voter Education and Publicity Mrs. Mary Nkem, warned that such information has the potential to disrupt the electoral process, undermine public confidence, and incite unnecessary tensions.

“The commission has taken proactive steps to combat this menace, part of which is to be open and transparent in all its dealings.

“We have made it a culture to constantly update the public through you after every commission’s meeting when decisions are taken.

“We will intensify the information flow as we move closer to the Edo governorship election,” he said.

He stated that measures have been put in place to minimise circulation of false information, and called for support.

“We believe that you will remain a bulwark against fake and misleading information about the commission and the electoral process.

“We urge the public and the media to play their part by verifying any information related to the election directly with the Commission before sharing.

“Our doors are open for any inquiries, and we have established multiple channels through which the public can reach us for accurate information.

“Let us all work together to ensure that only the truth prevails during this election period,” he appealed.