By David Akinadewo-Adekahunsi 

With just three weeks to the Ondo State governorship election, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has guaranteed journalists’ safety during the election coverage and warned against spreading fake news.

Speaking at a media workshop in Akure, the state capital on Tuesday, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, emphasised that necessary arrangements have been made with security agencies to ensure journalists’ safety before, during, and after the election.

Olumekun, represented by the state Resident Electoral Commissioner, Oluwatoyin Babalola, urged journalists to provide accurate reportage by avoiding fake news.

“As the election draws near, the threat of fake news remains a significant concern.

“Exercise caution and verify information before disseminating it, particularly when it pertains to the Commission’s activities and the electoral process,” Olumekun said.

He also emphasised the importance of balanced coverage, objective reporting, and responsible incident reporting to avoid escalating tensions or inciting violence.

Olumekun encouraged journalists to educate the public on peaceful participation and ensure transparency and integrity of the process.

Administrative Secretary of the Commission, Biodun Amosu stated that the workshop aimed to equip journalists with comprehensive information on guidelines, processes, and procedures governing the upcoming election.

“INEC has put in place robust measures to ensure a smooth, free, fair, transparent, and credible election, and journalists’ cooperation is crucial to achieving this goal.

“As members of the media, you must be well-versed in these processes to ensure accurate reportage and avoid speculation, misinformation, and disinformation,” Amosu urged.