THE Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, says no fewer than 1,255 journalists have been granted accreditation to cover the November 11 governorship elections in Bayelsa, Kogi, and Imo states.
The INEC Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this during a quarterly consultative meeting with media executives on Thursday in Abuja.
According to him, the journalists cut across 94 different media houses.
“Our updated statistics show that 94 media organisations, deploying 1,255 personnel, have been accredited for the elections.
“In the next few days, the accredited media organisations will be notified of the date for the collection of the identity cards for their officials,” he said.
Mr Yakubu also appealed to media practitioners to form a bulwark against fake news, assuring that the commission would always engage stakeholders in its operations.
“Election is a multi-stakeholder activity. In discharging our responsibilities, we will continue to engage with all stakeholders. One of such engagements is with the security agencies.
“In previous elections, media organisations have expressed concern about the safety of journalists, technical staff, and protection of the equipment you deploy on Election Day.
“Similarly, you have on several occasions urged the Commission to intercede with the security agencies to grant you unimpeded access to polling and collation locations.
“I want to reassure you that we will continue to do so as we engage with the security agencies both at the national level and in the three states.
“At the same time, I wish to remind all media organisations to strictly adhere to the ethics of your profession. We welcome reports on the election. At the same time, you should form a bulwark against fake news.
“For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission does not believe in censorship. We have said repeatedly that the best antidote to fake news is greater openness and regular and consistent engagement with stakeholders. We will continue to work together in this regard,” Mr Yakubu stressed.
