By Abdullahi D. Garba
HOTPEN – Ahead of next year’s general election, the Independent National Electoral Commission INEC has expressed its commitment to partnering with the media in order to tackle the menace of disinformation, misinformation and fake news.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu made the commitment Thursday in Abuja during the commission’s third quarterly meeting for the year 2022.
He said there was need for frequent interface between the commission and the media if both must tackle fake news.
“As the 2023 General Election approaches, we shall continue to work together to counter disinformation and misinformation. We will remain transparent and provide the required information to combat the triple menace as an antidote to fake news.
“Therefore, there will be need for more frequent and intense engagements with you ahead of the election. We hope that in spite of your competing activities, you will continue to honour our invitation”, said Yakubu.
While he appreciated the partnership with the media, Yakubu said; “We have achieved so much working together for electoral reforms, voter education, campaign for peaceful elections, the advocacy against electoral malpractices such as vote buying and yet, a lot of work still lies ahead”.
The INEC boss also expressed his commitment to ensuring that the 2023 General Election is transparent and credible, reflecting the will of the Nigerian people.