INEC accredits 1,255 journalists for Bayelsa, Imo, Kogi elections
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has accredited 1,255 journalists from 94 media organisations for the off-cycle governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi states scheduled for Saturday, November 11, 2023.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, confirmed this on Thursday at the fourth and last quarterly consultative meeting with the media for this year that was held at the conference room of the electoral body in Abuja.
He added that we are proud of our close collaboration with the media. With 83 media organisations (print, broadcast and online) represented by 130 journalists, the INEC Press Corps is one of the most diverse and vibrant in Nigeria. This close partnership will be sustained and strengthened.
In fact, our updated statistics show that 94 media organisations, deploying 1,255 personnel, have been accredited for the elections.
Also, in the next few days, the accredited media organisations will be notified of the date for the collection of the identity cards for their officials.
Yakubu said that election is a multi-stakeholder activity and in INEC discharging its responsibilities, the officials will continue to engage with all stakeholders.
At the same time, you should form a bulwark against fake news. For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission does not believe in censorship.
Yakubu added that the Electoral Commission has said repeatedly that the best antidote to fake news is greater openness and regular and consistent engagement with stakeholders.
The INEC Chairman told the journalists at the event that the Electoral Commission will continue to work together with them in this regard.
