The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has committed to providing journalists with unimpeded access to voting and collation centers during the upcoming Edo and Ondo governorship elections.
This assurance was given by INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, during the commission’s quarterly consultative meeting with media executives in Abuja.
Professor Yakubu announced that the Edo State governorship election is scheduled for September 21, 2024, while the Ondo State election will be held on November 16, 2024. He emphasized the importance of combating fake news ahead of these elections and urged journalists to remain vigilant.
“Our preparations are progressing in earnest, and we have recovered from the severe flooding that affected our State Headquarters in Benin City two months ago,” Yakubu stated. He assured that the damage to infrastructure and facilities is being addressed, ensuring readiness for the upcoming elections.
Campaigns by political parties and candidates are actively ongoing in both states. Despite a recent incident in Edo State resulting in the death of a security personnel, no further incidents have been reported. INEC plans to meet with security agencies under the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security to discuss measures to ensure the safety of voters, officials, and media personnel.
Chris Isiguzo, President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, reaffirmed the media’s commitment to supporting INEC in maintaining electoral integrity. He emphasized the essential partnership between INEC and the media to promote a transparent and accountable democratic process.
With these measures in place, INEC aims to ensure a secure and transparent electoral process in Edo and Ondo States, reflecting the will of the people.
