The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) announced on Thursday, October 24, 2024, that it will set up telephone hotlines for journalists covering the upcoming governorship election in Ondo State on November 16.
This initiative aims to help reporters verify any unclear information before they publish their stories.
Amosa Lamidi, the Head of Department for Electoral Operations at INEC, shared this news at a workshop for media leaders held in Akure, the capital of Ondo State. He mentioned that the hotlines would be available to reporters before Election Day.
Mr. Tope Onojobi, who represented Lamidi, also explained that a special situation room would be created to take calls and answer questions from the media during the election.
The media executives were encouraged to work with INEC to ensure that the information shared is accurate, helping to prevent political violence in the state.
Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, urged journalists to hold politicians and all stakeholders, including INEC, accountable for their actions.
Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, the state Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), echoed Olumekun’s message, assuring journalists that INEC would continue to provide timely and accurate information about the election.
“We must unite to overcome challenges like misinformation and logistical issues that might stop citizens from collecting their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs),” she said. “With your help, we can address these challenges and ensure that every eligible voter in Ondo State is ready to make their voice heard on Election Day.”
