The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC has urged the media to come up with suggestions, on how the Commission can improve in the conduct of future elections.

INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu stated this in Abuja during the quarterly meeting between the Media and the Commission to review the 2023 general election.

Professor Yakubu said the commission would want them to share their practical experiences of reporting or analysing the election, as well as their observations and suggestions on the processes for accreditation of media organizations, Access for journalists to voting and collation locations on Election Day, Conduct of pre-election activities by the Commission, Continuous Voter Registration (CVR), Voter Access to Polling Units.

Professor Yakubu also said that the Commission would share their plans for pending bye-elections and preparations for the off-cycle Governorship elections in Bayelsa, Imo and Kogi States scheduled to hold on Saturday 11th November this year

.

Responding, the National President, Nigeria Union of Journalists, Mr Chris Isiguzo said the 2023 General Elections was a defining moment in the Country’s history and that the media, played a crucial role in upholding the pillars of democracy – transparency, accountability, and the right to information.

Mr Isiguzo said the meeting would focus on four thematic areas which included accreditation of Media Organizations and Personnel, Coverage of the Election by Mainstream, Social and Online Media, Public Enlightenment and Voter Education, Access to Media, Reportage, Hate Speech and Fake News.

He urged other members of the media to contribute thoughtfully, honestly, and constructively as everyone’s collective efforts would shape the future of media involvement in Nigeria’s electoral Processes.

Kayode Oyedare, Edited By Grace Namiji