By Henry Ojo

The Independent National Electoral Commission has assured media practitioners in Osun State of full cooperation ahead of the August 15 governorship election in the state.

The Resident Electoral Commissioner for Osun State, Oluwatoyin Babalola, gave the assurance during a courtesy visit by the Osun Online Publishers Association to the commission’s state office in Osogbo on Monday.

Babalola emphasized that the media remains an essential stakeholder in both the electoral process and democratic governance. According to her, journalists and media organisations play a major role in combating misinformation and ensuring the public receives verified information during elections.

She noted that the commission is committed to conducting a governorship election that will be credible, transparent, free, fair, and inclusive.

Speaking during the meeting, she said the relationship between INEC and the media must go beyond routine information sharing, stressing that voter education is crucial as the election approaches.

“If there is no media, society cannot be informed. When it comes to election matters, there is misinformation and disinformation, and the media is needed to correct these anomalies,” she stated.

Peter Obi And I Did Not Leave ADC Because We Were Fighting With Atiku – Kwankwaso

The REC explained that media practitioners have direct access to accurate information from INEC, making them valuable partners in educating voters and promoting peaceful participation in the electoral process.

According to her, journalists also help encourage issue-based campaigns by focusing public discussions on governance, development, and political programmes instead of personal attacks or rumours.

She further stated that accurate election coverage by the media contributes to public trust in the democratic process.

“We need the media for voter education due to your wide coverage. The media also passes accurate information because of your access to INEC and ability to get the right information for us instead of relying on gossip,” she added.

Babalola also reminded media professionals that electoral laws prescribe strict punishment for tampering with election results, warning that offenders could face imprisonment without the option of a fine.

She urged journalists and media organisations intending to cover the election to complete their accreditation processes early to avoid restrictions on election day.

The REC further disclosed that security agencies have already assured the commission of adequate support to ensure the safety of lives and property throughout the election period.

Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Osun Online Publishers Association, Abioye Lawrence, welcomed Babalola to the state and called on the electoral commission to maintain close collaboration with media practitioners.

He also appealed to INEC to ensure the conduct of a credible governorship election that reflects the will of the people of Osun State.

The August 15 governorship election is expected to attract significant political attention as political parties intensify campaigns across the state ahead of the poll.