With the Osun State governorship election scheduled for August 15 drawing near, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has assured journalists of its unwavering support. The Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, gave this commitment during a meeting with the Osun Online Publishers Association (OOPA) in Osogbo on Monday.
Mrs. Babalola emphasized that the media plays a vital role in ensuring a credible election. She noted that without the press, society would lack accurate information, especially in countering misinformation and disinformation that often plague electoral processes. She promised to collaborate closely with media professionals to guarantee a free, fair, transparent, and inclusive election.
Highlighting the media’s importance, she stated, ‘Your visit today is not just a courtesy call. We will work together. We have moved beyond relying on unverified reports. The media is essential for voter education given its broad reach, and it ensures accurate information flows from INEC to the public, reducing reliance on gossip.’
She also stressed that the media promotes peaceful coexistence and tolerance, and INEC will fulfill its duty to provide timely information to journalists. On the issue of election result tampering, she warned that it attracts a jail term with no option of a fine, urging media organizations to register for accreditation to operate freely on election day.
Additionally, Mrs. Babalola disclosed that security agencies have assured INEC of full cooperation in safeguarding lives and property during the election period.
Earlier, OOPA Chairman Abioye Lawrence welcomed the REC and urged her to include media practitioners in the electoral process and deliver a credible election on August 15.