The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has called for a strengthened relationship between the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the media, ahead of the 2027 general elections. NGE President Eze Anaba made this appeal during the INEC-NGE Strategic Workshop in Abuja on October 5, 2026. He highlighted the critical role of the media in building and sustaining trust during election periods. Anaba emphasized that trust in the electoral process is crucial for citizens to believe their votes will count.
According to Anaba, the media has a significant role in determining what information reaches the public and how it is presented. He noted that with this responsibility comes an obligation to uphold accuracy, fairness, balance, and the public interest. However, Anaba acknowledged that the media cannot perform this role effectively without credible, timely, and accessible information from INEC. A symbiotic relationship between both parties is essential, especially in an environment prone to misinformation and disinformation.
The NGE president stressed that the relationship between INEC and the media must be founded on openness, mutual respect, and regular engagement. This, he believes, will help to build and sustain trust in the electoral process. Anaba also pointed out that elections are not just about casting ballots but about trust in the process and the institutions responsible for conducting elections. He emphasized the need for INEC to communicate effectively with the public and for editors and journalists to report electoral processes accurately.
The workshop provided a platform for stakeholders to examine the traditional relationship between INEC and the media. Anaba encouraged participants to ask critical questions, such as how INEC can improve its communication with the public and how editors and journalists can report electoral processes more accurately. He also highlighted the need to collectively confront disinformation without undermining legitimate criticism.
Anaba noted that the Guild believes a credible election is a shared responsibility. He emphasized that INEC has its constitutional mandate, political parties and candidates have their responsibilities, and the media has its obligations. Ultimately, citizens must be adequately informed and empowered to participate in the democratic process. The NGE president expressed hope that the workshop would yield positive outcomes for the electoral process.
The strategic workshop between INEC and the NGE aimed to strengthen the relationship between the two bodies. By fostering a collaborative relationship, both parties can work together to ensure that the 2027 general elections are credible and transparent. This, in turn, will help to build trust in the electoral process and promote a healthy democracy.
The NGE's call for a strengthened relationship between INEC and the media comes at a critical time, as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections. With the media playing a crucial role in shaping public opinion, a collaborative relationship with INEC will help to ensure that citizens are well-informed and engaged in the electoral process.
Key points
- The Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) has emphasized the need for a strong relationship between INEC and the media, built on openness and mutual respect, to ensure credible 2027 elections.
