The Independent National Electoral Commission has granted accreditation to 112 media organizations, involving more than 700 journalists, technicians, and support staff, to cover the Ondo governorship election scheduled for November 16.
According to The PUNCH, INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, announced the extensive media participation during the Commission’s fourth quarterly consultative meeting with media representatives held in Abuja on Friday.
“The Commission is pleased to confirm the accreditation of 112 national and international media organizations, spanning newspapers, radio, television, and online platforms,” Yakubu stated. “These organizations will deploy over 700 personnel to ensure comprehensive coverage of the election.”
He added that detailed information on the accredited media outlets and their assigned personnel will be made available on INEC’s website and social media channels.
Yakubu underscored the critical role of the media in safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process, emphasizing that responsible and factual reporting is crucial to counteract misinformation and promote peaceful elections as campaigns intensify in Ondo State.
“I urge the media to enhance their accurate and balanced reporting to help ensure a peaceful election,” Yakubu said. “With political campaigns in full swing, your role in debunking fake news, misinformation, and disinformation is more important than ever.”
The President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, also spoke at the event, highlighting the importance of protecting journalists and upholding press freedom as essential components of a thriving democracy.
“As we approach the Ondo gubernatorial election and other bye-elections, I want to stress the need for the safety and security of journalists,” Isiguzo said.
“Security forces must be proactive in ensuring that media professionals can work without fear of intimidation, harassment, or harm.”
He further emphasized that any form of clampdown on journalists is unacceptable in a democratic society, urging law enforcement agencies to safeguard press freedom.
“Journalists play a crucial role in our democracy, and their protection must be prioritized,” Isiguzo added.
