In preparation for the upcoming off-cycle governorship election in Bayelsa, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has asked for the support of the media in spreading awareness and ensuring a free and fair election.
Sam Olumekun, Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, made the appeal at a forum with media executives in Yenagoa on Thursday.
Olumekun, who is also a National Commissioner at INEC, said the commission regarded the media as a strategic partner in the democratic process, hence the collaboration to deliver a transparent and credible governorship election.
“The media remain one of our critical stakeholders, such that we have over 100 members of INEC Press Corps from various media organisations in the country who cover the commission’s activities regularly.
“The commission also frequently consults the media ahead of formulation of policies and during implementation of activities to keep them abreast of goings on in the electoral system and the commission,” Olumekun said.
He assured that the commission was ready for the polls as the non-sensitive materials were already on ground while the sensitive materials had been procured awaiting dispatch.
Speaking earlier, Obo Efanga, Resident Electoral Commissioner in Bayelsa, appealed to the media to assist the commission in enlightening the electorate to embrace peace and shun violence.
Efanga, represented by Emmanuel Obodu, Administrative Secretary, INEC, Bayelsa, assured that the commission was determined to conduct credible elections.
