From David Onuoja, Abuja
Ahead of the forthcoming Ondo State Governorship election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has promised to improve logistics and transportation during elections.
INEC Chairman, professor Mahmood Yakubu made this known while discussing with the Media Executives during the last Quarterly Consultative Meeting held in Abuja, Friday.
“We have improved on the voter accreditation process and the upload of results to the INEC Result Viewing (IReV) portal. The capacity of election duty staff has improved with hands-on training for especially Polling Unit officials”.
According to him, “we have prepared to engage with stakeholders and interact with the security agencies and transport providers.
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“I would like to appreciate the media for your support in voter mobilisation for the exercise.
“I will also appeal to the media to intensify your accurate reportage that will ensure peaceful elections, especially now that campaign by political parties and candidates is in full swing in the State. I appeal to you to continue to serve as a counterforce against fake news, misinformation and disinformation”, said.
Speaking during the meeting, the President of Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Chris Isiguzo, said the threat against journalists in the country is a thing of worry as they pass through several intimidation, harassment among other things.
He said, this meeting is significance particularly as it comes less than 12 hours before the 10th International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists. This year theme is “Safety of Journalists in Crises and Emergencies” It is an important reminder of the sacrifices media professionals make to ensure citizens are informed, even when their own safety is at risk.
As Ondo election approach, he advised security agencies to take proactive steps to guarantee the safety of media professionals, especially in light of the intensified threats and heightened risks that journalists face in today’s environment.
“Clampdowns, intimidation, and harassment must have no place in a democratic society.
“We commended INEC, under the capable leadership of Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, for its commitment to maintaining open lines of communication with the media. This commitment fosters an environment of trust that is essential for credible elections and responsible journalism”, he said.
He equally reiterated NUJ ‘s committed to supporting INEC’s efforts to counter misinformation while promoting fair reporting that reflects the true conditions of our democratic processes
