Inec set for Ondo and Edo guber

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has provided an update on its preparations for the upcoming governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States.

At a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, Mr. Sam Olumekun, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), represented by Mrs. Mary Nkem, Director of Voter Education and Publicity, highlighted the crucial role of the media in the electoral process.

Olumekun emphasized the importance of media integrity as the elections approach, noting that preparations are at a crucial stage. He assured that the commission is committed to conducting the elections with the highest standards of integrity.

Key preparations include completed security personnel training, ongoing voter education, and nearly finished training for electoral officers by September 2024. The commission has also finalized arrangements with transport unions and completed the printing of voter registers for all 4,590 units in the states.

On September 10, 2024, INEC will meet with stakeholders in Edo State to oversee voter accreditation. The Peace Accord will be signed by all stakeholders on September 11, 2024, under the supervision of General Abdulsalami Abubakar.

Media accreditation for the elections was open from July 8 to July 24, 2024. INEC will publish a list of accredited organizations on its social media platforms.

Olumekun warned against the spread of fake news, stressing that misinformation could negatively impact the electoral process. The commission is committed to transparency and regularly updates the public through the media.

Additionally, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, urged journalists to avoid spreading false information and adhere to the Nigerian media code of electoral coverage. He stressed the need for media professionals to verify facts and avoid publishing misleading news.