Fake News Has Potential To Disrupt Electoral Process, INEC Says as Olumekun urges increased Media collaboration
Oru Leonard
As the Edo State governorship election approaches in two weeks time, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is leaving no stone unturned to ensure a smooth and credible process.
The National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Hon Sam Olumekun has stated that fake news has potential to disrupt electoral process, undermine public confidence, and incite unnecessary tensions.
Hon. Olumekun who was represented by the Director of Voter Education and Publicity (VEP), Mrs Mary Nkem stated this at the Media Center, INEC Headquarters today at a briefing for members of the INEC Press Corps in recognition on the role of Media in electoral process.
He reiterated INEC’s intensified its preparations, engaging with stakeholders, training security personnel, and configuring the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) machines. The Commission has also produced observer and accreditation tags and is concluding arrangements with transport unions for logistics.
Olumekun therefore urged the media to combat fake news and misinformation, which can disrupt the electoral process and undermine public confidence. He encouraged journalists to verify information directly with INEC before sharing and praised the INEC Press Corps for their support in promoting democracy.
As the election approaches, INEC is committed to transparency and openness, providing regular updates and establishing multiple channels for the public to access accurate information. With the media’s cooperation, INEC aims to ensure a successful and peaceful election in Edo State.
In this presentation on the “Roles the Media in Democratic Elections / INEC Social Media Platforms and INEC News”, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, offered recommendations to the media to help avoid the spread of fake news.
He noted that the media’s role is enshrined in Section 22 of the 1999 Constitution and stressed the importance of journalists understanding INEC’s election result management processes.
He urged the media to comply with the Nigerian media code of electoral coverage, emphasizing fairness and objectivity, which has been published and shared by the International Press Centre (IPC).
He advised the media to always cross-check facts and figures, noting that breaking news with falsehoods is futile.
Issues and challenges arising from INEC Accreditation of Media Organisations Online, like double registration, incomplete registration, submission of blurred passport and request after deadline of registration were list by INEC..
