Off Cycle Electon : INEC Builds Capacity Of Journalists

By Kayode Oyedare

For effective reportage and safety of journalists during the November 11 Governorship election in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo states, the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC has commenced a Two day training for its Press Corps.

At the opening of the training in Akwanga Nasarawa State , INEC chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu expressed concern over the current security situation in the three States.

Professor Mahmood Yakubu while enumerating measures taken with security agencies to ensure peaceful conduct of the polls appealed to members of the press corps to establish a good working relationship with security personnel for their safety.

Represented by the National Commissioner and Chairman Information and Voter Education Committee, Mr Sam Olumekun, the INEC Chairman stressed that adequate safety arrangements including safety jackets would be provided for those to be deployed to Riverrine Areas.

INEC Chairman maintained that the commission was adequately ready for the conduct of the polls as non sensitive materials have been deployed to the three States.

According to him, the commission had held meetings with political parties and opened a portal for accreditation of ad-hoc Staff for the exercise.

He appealed to journalists to be professional and give useful information that would guide electorates to make informed choice.

Edited By Grace Namiji