We’ve accredited 112 media organisations for Ondo polls – INEC

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) said it had accredited 112 media organisations to cover the forthcoming November 16 governorship election in Ondo state.

INEC chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu stated this at the Commission’s fourth quarterly consultative meeting with the media in Abuja Friday.

Yakubu said the 112 media organisations comprised both national and international outfits.

He said, “As you are aware, the portal for media accreditation for the Ondo state governorship election shut down at midnight yesterday.

“The Commission is glad to announce the accreditation of 112 national and international media organisations ( newspaper, radio, television and online) deploying over 700 journalists, technicians and other personnel to facilitate their coverage of the election.

“The detailed breakdown of the media organisations and the number of personnel to be deployed will be uploaded to our website and social media platforms for public information.”

He appealed to the media to intensify accurate reportage that would ensure peaceful elections, charging them to be a counterforce against fake news and misinformation.

“As the Ondo state governorship election approaches, I 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 also appeal to you to continue to serve as a counterforce against fake news, misinformation and disinformation.”

In his remarks, the president of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Comrade Chris Isiguzo, called for the safety of journalists during the election.

He said, “As we look forward to the upcoming gubernatorial election in Ondo state and other bye-elections, I want to underscore the need for the safety and protection of our journalists.

“We urge 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; rather, it is imperative that we demonstrate maturity and respect in our dealings with media professionals, ensuring their freedom to conduct legitimate work without fear or interference.”