OSOGBO, OSUN STATE — Ahead of the August 15 governorship election in Osun State, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission has called on journalists and media organizations to intensify efforts in combating the spread of fake news, warning that misinformation could threaten the credibility of the electoral process.
The appeal was made during a stakeholders’ engagement meeting in preparation for the upcoming poll in Osun State, where electoral officials, security representatives, and media practitioners gathered to discuss strategies for ensuring a peaceful and transparent election.
According to the REC, the rapid spread of false information, particularly on social media platforms, poses a significant risk to voter confidence and could potentially incite unnecessary tension before, during, and after the election. He stressed that the role of the media is critical in verifying information before dissemination and ensuring that the public receives accurate and balanced reporting.
He urged journalists to act as responsible gatekeepers of information by fact-checking politically sensitive content, especially claims related to electoral processes, candidates, and security arrangements. He added that misinformation has become one of the most dangerous threats to democratic elections globally, and Nigeria is not immune to its effects.
The REC further emphasized that collaboration between the media and the electoral commission is essential in safeguarding electoral integrity. He encouraged media professionals to make use of official communication channels provided by the commission for authentic updates, rather than relying on unverified online sources.
Officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission also reiterated their commitment to conducting a free, fair, and credible election in Osun State, noting that logistical arrangements, voter education campaigns, and security coordination are already underway ahead of the poll.
Media representatives at the meeting acknowledged the importance of their role in shaping public perception and pledged to support efforts aimed at reducing the spread of misinformation. Some journalists also called for increased transparency from political actors to help reduce the volume of conflicting narratives circulating during election periods.
The REC warned that individuals or groups deliberately spreading false information could face legal consequences under existing electoral laws, urging all stakeholders to prioritize national interest over partisan advantage.
As the election date approaches, attention continues to focus on voter education, security preparedness, and information management. Electoral observers say the ability of institutions and the media to control misinformation will play a key role in determining the credibility and peaceful conduct of the poll in Osun State.
The commission reiterated its commitment to ensuring that the electoral process remains transparent, inclusive, and aligned with democratic standards, while calling on citizens to remain vigilant and rely only on verified sources of information.
