INEC seeks media support for fair elections
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has described the media as a critical stakeholder in the electoral process, underscoring its vital role in voter education, election monitoring and accurate reporting.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Akwa Ibom State, Professor Anugbum Onuoha, said INEC could not succeed without a transparent, professional, responsible and factual partnership with the media.
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Etim Ekpimah
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has described the media as a critical stakeholder in the electoral process, underscoring its vital role in voter education, election monitoring and accurate reporting.
Speaking at a press conference on Tuesday, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) in Akwa Ibom State, Professor Anugbum Onuoha, said INEC could not succeed without a transparent, professional, responsible and factual partnership with the media.
As preparations intensify for forthcoming electoral activities in the state, the commission reaffirmed its commitment to its core mandate, transparency and strict adherence to the Electoral Act 2026, INEC guidelines and other enabling laws.
Prof. Onuoha assured political actors, journalists and other key stakeholders of the commission’s readiness to maintain open communication and provide timely clarification on electoral matters within the confines of the law.
He urged journalists to uphold the ethics of the profession through accuracy, fairness and balanced reporting as both institutions work together to strengthen democracy in Akwa Ibom State.
“As we prepare for upcoming electoral activities in the state, I assure you that this commission remains committed to neutrality, transparency and adherence to the Electoral Act and INEC guidelines. Our doors are open for engagement, clarification and collaboration within the bounds of our rules.
“I urge you to continue upholding the ethics of journalism — accuracy, fairness and balance — as we work together to deepen democracy in Akwa Ibom State,” he said.
The REC, however, cautioned political parties against premature campaigning, stressing that the ban on campaign activities had not been lifted.
He warned that any early campaigning would violate the Electoral Act and would not be tolerated by the commission.
“I want to warn all political parties to desist from campaigning because we have not lifted the ban on campaigns,” he added.
Onuoha also stressed that vote buying remains a criminal offence, warning political actors against engaging in it and urging voters not to sell their votes during elections.
