…Engages Journalists Ahead of Nov 16 Guber Poll
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Ondo State has revealed that 4,002 BVAS machines has been configured and fully charged, with 812 backup machines on standby to ensure timely and accurate results ahead of the November 16 gubernatorial election in Ondo.
The Head, Department of Information Communication Technology in the Commission, Nicholas Ocholi disclosed this on Tuesday in Akure at a program titled “Forum for Reporters, Producers, and On-Air Personalities.”
The National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC) Sam Olumekun explained that the purpose of the engagement was to equip journalists with the necessary skills for accurate, seamless, and fair coverage of the election.
Olumekun, represented by Ondo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Oluwatoyin Babalola, stressed that the workshop aimed to provide journalists with comprehensive information to ensure a free, fair, and transparent election.
While assuring that the commission had implemented robust measures to ensure the smooth conduct of the election, Babalola emphasized that the necessary security arrangements had been made for the electorate, media, and other stakeholders to ensure a peaceful and violence-free election.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has put in place robust measures to ensure the smooth conduct of this election.
“As members of the media, you must be well-versed in these processes to ensure accurate reportage and avoid the spread of speculations, misinformation, and disinformation.
“Whether covering the proper use of the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) or detailing the steps involved in result collation, your reporting must correctly reflect these processes.
“Wrongful usage of social media platforms can lead to unrest, confusion, or panic during the election. Our doors are always open to provide clarification, updates, and accurate information. We encourage you to reach out whenever necessary so we can work together to keep the public well-informed throughout the election period,” she added.
Speaking on behalf of the REC, the INEC Administrative Secretary for Ondo State, Biodun Onikate-Amosu, urged journalists to remain factual, non-partisan, and avoid sensationalism in their reporting.
He encouraged them to verify their sources before sharing information on social media, warning that unverified reports could foster violence.
In his goodwill message, the Chairman of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), Ondo State Council, Leke Adegbite, commended INEC for being transparent and sharing information ahead of the election.
He noted that this openness had motivated journalists to provide timely and accurate reporting on the upcoming gubernatorial election.
Adegbite assured the commission of journalists’ readiness to provide accurate and factual coverage of the election and urged INEC to maintain open communication with the press during and after the election.