The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has advised journalists in Ekiti State to avoid sensational reporting, misinformation, and disinformation as the state gets ready for the 2026 gubernatorial election. The commission warned that these actions could damage electoral integrity and erode public confidence.
While hosting members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ekiti State Council, Dr. Bunmi Omoseyindemi, the Commission’s Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Ekiti, offered the counsel.
The REC emphasizes that reliable information is necessary for citizens to make educated decisions and claims that democracy cannot flourish without the media.
Dr. Omoseyindemi praised the NUJ for consistently advancing civic engagement, political consciousness, and ethical journalism. He added that the union’s influence is crucial in influencing public opinion, bolstering transparency, and supporting peaceful electoral participation.
As the state gets ready for next elections, he also reiterated the Commission’s dedication to accuracy, transparency, and strict adherence to electoral regulations.
According to Dr. Omoseyindemi, INEC in Ekiti State is still dedicated to maintaining stakeholder engagement, strict adherence to the Electoral Act and pertinent rules, timely distribution of correct information, and transparency in all its procedures.
When covering political issues, he exhorted media to maintain professionalism, fairness, balance, and accuracy.
“Your visit today is not only timely but highly significant,” he said, “especially as we continue to prepare for the upcoming electoral activities in Ekiti State.” An important player in the voting process is still the media.
“Democracy cannot flourish without the media; citizens cannot make educated judgments without reliable information.
The Nigeria Union of Journalists has continuously been essential in advancing civic involvement, political consciousness, and ethical journalism. As collaborators in the consolidation of democracy, we acknowledge your impact on public opinion, enhancing openness, and encouraging nonviolent engagement.
“INEC in Ekiti State is still dedicated to: Increasing stakeholder engagement; adhering strictly to the Electoral Act, regulations, and guidelines; being transparent in all of our operations; and promptly disseminating correct information.
“In reporting on election concerns, we rely on the NUJ to maintain professionalism, accuracy, impartiality, and balance.
“Sensationalism, misrepresentation, and disinformation should be avoided during this critical time as they can erode public confidence and electoral integrity.
“We guarantee that we are always available for explanation, confirmation, and productive interaction.
By working together, we can increase public trust and guarantee that Ekiti State’s election process continues to be legitimate, peaceful, and inclusive.
“Let me express my gratitude for your visit once more and reiterate our willingness to collaborate closely with the NUJ to ensure the success of our democratic process.”
Earlier in his speech, Kayode Babatuyi, the Chairman of the NUJ, Ekiti Council, gave the commission his word that the state’s journalists will follow the rules of the electoral process without causing any disorder.
