INEC, Media To Unite Against Misinformation On Electoral Activities
Princess-Ekwi Ajide
The Independent National Electroal Commission, INEC, has charged the Nigeria media to be a force against fake news and misleading narratives about the Commission and its activities.
The Chairman of INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, who made the call in Abuja during his quarterly consultative meeting with the media, observed the spread of fake news and misinformation instantly and on a global scale as an important reality in today’s age of information technology.
He explained that INEC believes that the best antidote to fake news is greater openness and transparency hence it does not believe in censorship.
The INEC boss appreciated the cordial relationship with the media and reassured that INEC will continue to work closely with them in all aspects including reports, commentaries and analyses on elections in particular and other electoral activities.
Responding on behalf of the media, President of the Nigerian Union of Journalists, NUJ, Chris Isiguzo, appreciated journalists for their tireless efforts in promoting public awareness, scrutinising electoral processes, and holding stakeholders accountable as well as contribute significantly to the integrity and credibility of the electoral system.
He opined that the conduct of credible elections not only upholds the principles of democracy but also fosters national unity, stability, and progress which reinforces the legitimacy of the democratic institutions and reaffirms the people’s trust in the electoral process.
