INEC Outlines Preparations for Edo and Ondo Governorship Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has provided detailed updates on its ongoing preparations for the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States.

During a press briefing held in Abuja, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mr Sam Olumekun, represented by the Director of Voter Education and Publicity, Mrs Mary Nkem, emphasised the commission’s commitment to conducting the elections with the utmost integrity and transparency.

Mr Olumekun highlighted the critical role of the media in the electoral process, stressing that journalists serve not only as conveyors of information but also as key players in upholding the democratic process.

As the elections approach, he called on the media to maintain high standards of integrity in their reporting, particularly in a time when misinformation can easily spread and undermine public confidence.

“Preparations have reached an advanced and critical stage due to the importance placed on the role of the media in elections,” Olumekun noted.

“The commission has left no stone unturned. These efforts are to guarantee that these elections will be conducted with the highest standards of integrity.”

Olumekun further elaborated on the extensive measures INEC has taken to ensure a smooth and credible election process.

He noted that INEC is intensifying its engagement with stakeholders at both state and local government levels, with ongoing voter education initiatives aimed at ensuring widespread awareness and participation.

To enhance the security of the elections, the training of security personnel has been completed, and the training of electoral officers is expected to be finalised by September 2024.

INEC has also finalised arrangements with land and marine transport unions to facilitate the efficient deployment of election materials.

The printing of voter registers for each of the 4,590 units in Edo and Ondo States is nearly complete, and the installation and deployment of necessary election materials have been executed.

As part of the preparation process, the commission plans to hold a meeting on 10th September 2024 with key stakeholders to monitor voter accreditation in selected areas in Edo State.

The following day, 11th September 2024, will see the signing of a Peace Accord by all stakeholders, under the supervision of the National Peace Committee chaired by former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar.

This accord is a significant step aimed at ensuring that the elections are conducted peacefully and that all parties commit to a fair process.

Regarding media participation, Olumekun confirmed that media accreditation commenced on 8th July 2024 and concluded on 24th July 2024.

INEC will publish the list of accredited media organisations, making it accessible across all its social media platforms to ensure transparency and public access to information.

In addition to operational updates, Olumekun addressed the challenge of misinformation, which poses a significant threat to the integrity of the electoral process.

He warned journalists against the dissemination of fake news, highlighting the damaging effects that false information can have, especially in the digital age.

“The Commission has taken proactive steps to combat this menace, part of which is being open and transparent in all areas, which the Commission has always done,” he stated. “We have made it a culture to constantly update the public through you, the media.”

Echoing Olumekun’s sentiments, Mr Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, provided further recommendations to the media on avoiding the spread of misinformation.

He reminded journalists of their constitutional role as defined in the 1999 Constitution and stressed the importance of understanding INEC’s election result management processes.

Oyekanmi urged the media to adhere strictly to the Nigerian media code of electoral coverage, which emphasises fairness, accuracy, and objectivity.

Oyekanmi also advised media professionals to consistently cross-check facts and figures before publication, noting that the rush to break news should not come at the expense of truthfulness and accuracy.

“Breaking news with falsehoods is futile,” he cautioned, underscoring the responsibility of the media to uphold the integrity of their reporting, particularly during sensitive electoral periods.

INEC’s comprehensive approach to the Edo and Ondo governorship elections underscores its dedication to upholding democratic values and ensuring that every aspect of the electoral process is conducted transparently and fairly.

As the elections draw nearer, the Commission’s emphasis on media integrity, stakeholder engagement, and meticulous planning reflects its commitment to delivering elections that are credible, inclusive, and reflective of the will of the people.