INEC urged to prioritise transparency, communication

The International Press Centre (IPC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to foster citizens’ trust in the electoral process through transparent and accurate communication.

IPC made the appeal on Sunday at a two-day workshop organised for Ondo State INEC staff ahead of the 2024 governorship election.

The workshop with theme, “Effective communication in electoral process: Communicating with empathy and expertise,” was organised by IPC in partnership with DAI and Centre for Media Society, with the goal of enhancing the electoral process in Nigeria.

Mr Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of IPC, said INEC could build trust by conveying accurate, timely, and accessible messages.

“Clear and transparent communication is essential for building trust with the electorate, ensuring citizens are well-informed and addressing concerns,” he stated..

He advised political parties to adhere to the rules for a peaceful exercise and warned that violent supporters would be held accountable.

Arogundade also encouraged registered voters to participate in the electoral process.

Oluwatoyin Babalola, INEC Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ondo State, assured that the workshop would enhance communication capacity and boost public confidence.

“INEC is set to conduct a credible, free, fair, inclusive, and transparent election, with every vote counting.”

Babalola confirmed that voter education initiatives were underway through various channels, including mass media and collaborations with civil society organisations.

The REC said INEC had deployed non-sensitive materials to Local Government Areas, with remaining materials to be received and distributed this week.