Ahead of the September 21st Edo State governorship election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revealed that it has accredited 892 journalists to cover the exercise.
INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun made this known on Friday in Abuja while addressing members of the INEC press corps.
He said as the fourth estate of the realm, the media is not just a conveyor of information but also a vital player in the democratic process, particularly during elections.
Olumekun stressed that the press briefing was necessary due to the crucial role the media play in shaping democracy.
He pointed out that the engagement with media organisations was no doubt timely as preparations for the conduct of the off-cycle governorship election in Edo State is only 15 days away.
The National Commissioner said a final report on the accreditation of journalists and detailed breakdown would be made public soon.
Olumekun stated: “To put it on record, 122 organisations who applied for a total of 892 personnel were approved after careful review.
“However, this number may reduce as some organisations who applied for a specific number did not nominate up to that particular number on the portal, while some applied, got approval and for some reason did not conclude the process on our portal.”
Olumekun stressed that in the digital age, the Commission is aware of the dangers posed by fake and misleading news, especially during an election period.
He noted that such information has the potential to disrupt the electoral process, undermine public confidence, and incite unnecessary tensions.
“The Commission has taken proactive steps to combat this menace, part of which is to be open and transparent in all its dealings.
“We have made it a culture to constantly update the public through you after every Commission’s meeting when decisions are taken. We will intensify the information flow as we move closer to the Edo governorship election.
“Measures have been put in place to minimise circulation of false information. However, we cannot do this alone. We believe that you will remain a bulwark against fake and misleading information about the Commission and the electoral process,” he added.