Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has appealed to the media “to be guided by the principles of accuracy, fairness, and responsibility in all your election-related content.”
The message was delivered in a keynote address by Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC) of the Commission, at a forum for media executives held in Benin City on Thursday ahead of the 2024 Edo State Governorship Election slated for Saturday, September 21st.
According to Olumekun, who was represented at the occasion by the Edo State, Resident Electoral Commissioner(REC), Dr. Anugbum Onuoha, “as the fourth estate of the realm, the media is not just a conveyor of information but also a vital player in the democratic process, particularly during elections. Your work influences public perception, informs voter decisions, and upholds the integrity of the electoral process.”
On the role of the media in elections, Olumekun asserted, “the media is an indispensable partner in the conduct of elections. Your role extends beyond mere reporting; you are the bridge between the electorate and the electoral process. Through your platforms, you educate voters on their rights, responsibilities, and the procedures of the electoral process.
“You highlight the manifestos and policies of candidates, facilitating informed choices by the electorate. Your investigative journalism brings transparency, exposing malpractices and ensuring accountability.”
Olumekun reminded the media that “in an era of misinformation and fake news, your role as gatekeepers of factual information is critical. It is through your dedication to truth and accuracy that voters are protected from misleading narratives that could compromise the integrity of the elections.”
On the Legal Framework and the Electoral Act 2022, Olumekun intoned,”to effectively carry out your duties, it is essential as Media Executives to be well-versed in the legal framework governing elections. The Electoral Act 2022 is the foundation of our electoral processes and a thorough understanding of its provisions is necessary for accurate reporting and analysis.
“The Act introduced several significant reforms aimed at enhancing the credibility of our elections. There are creative and innovative provisions in the Act that will impact the electoral process, and the conduct of the Governorship election in Edo State, the media must have good knowledge of the provisions of the Act.”
Going further, he stressed: “In your capacity as a Media Executive, you have the power to influence not just the outcome of elections, but the very fabric of our democratic society. I encourage you to use this power wisely and in the interest of the nation.”
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