The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has cautioned that Nigeria’s electoral space remains highly susceptible to misinformation, even as he underscored the indispensable role of journalists in safeguarding electoral integrity.
Speaking on Friday at The Electoral Institute in Abuja during the public presentation of The INEC Press Corps: Chronicles of Nigeria’s Election Journalists, authored by INEC Press Corps Chairman Segun Ojumu, Amupitan described the book as a “rich and comprehensive chronicle of the sacrifices, risks, and behind-the-scenes realities faced by journalists navigating Nigeria’s complex electoral terrain.”
He noted that the work of the press corps is becoming even more critical as the country approaches the 2026 election cycle, which includes the FCT Area Council elections as well as the Ekiti and Osun governorship polls.
“Journalists serve as a vital bridge between the Commission’s operations and the voting public,” he said, acknowledging their decisive role during recent exercises such as the Anambra governorship election and the ongoing Continuous Voter Registration (CVR).
Amupitan warned that misinformation, misinterpretation, and deliberate distortion can erode the foundations of even the strongest electoral systems. He urged media professionals to verify election-related information through official INEC platforms, stressing that public trust—more than technology—remains the true measure of electoral credibility.
“Our official website and digital channels should be regarded as authoritative sources. The era of relying on rumours must end,” he declared, calling for deeper collaboration with the media to combat electoral offences, including vote-buying, rigging, and other forms of malpractice.
The INEC Chairman expressed gratitude to Ojumu and the entire press corps for documenting Nigeria’s electoral processes, emphasising that elections are best remembered for transparency, credibility, and unity when journalists practise responsible reporting.
Author Segun Ojumu described his book as a tribute to the resilience and evolution of Nigeria’s electoral journalists. “This is a story of courage,” he said, noting how the press corps has adapted to rapid technological changes and the increasing demand for real-time data analysis. He called for continuous training and stronger protection for media workers, stressing that democracy flourishes when journalists can operate freely and safely.
The event drew key stakeholders, including representatives of the Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun; Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council, Yusuf Dantalle; FCT Resident Electoral Commissioner, Aminu Idris; and several senior INEC officials.
In recent years, the rise of misinformation has posed growing challenges to Nigeria’s electoral environment, prompting INEC to adopt proactive measures such as real-time digital updates and intensified media engagement to reinforce public confidence.
About the Author
