The Independent National Electoral Commission has called on broadcast media organisations to uphold fairness, professionalism, and accuracy as preparations intensify for the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at the 81st General Assembly of the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria in Abuja, INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, emphasised that responsible management of the airwaves would play a decisive role in strengthening public confidence in the electoral process. He noted that broadcast platforms have become central to political communication and can significantly influence democratic outcomes.
Amupitan warned that misinformation poses a serious threat to electoral credibility, stressing that the media must serve as a reliable source of truth. According to him, the integrity of the airwaves directly impacts the ability of citizens to make informed decisions during elections.
He highlighted key provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, particularly those requiring equal access to media platforms for all political parties and candidates. He also reiterated that state-owned media must not be used to favour or disadvantage any political group. Additionally, he stressed that airtime allocation should be balanced, ensuring that competing parties are given similar time slots.
The INEC chairman cautioned broadcasters against airing inflammatory content capable of inciting ethnic, religious, or sectional tensions. He also reminded media organisations of restrictions on campaign-related broadcasts within 24 hours before election day, noting that violations constitute an offence under the law.
Despite acknowledging improvements introduced by the Electoral Act, Amupitan expressed concern over enforcement challenges, regulatory overlaps, and the growing impact of digital media. He warned that these factors could weaken the effectiveness of existing regulations if not properly addressed.
To tackle these issues, he called for stronger collaboration among stakeholders, including INEC, the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, security agencies, and the judiciary, to ensure compliance and accountability.
With less than a year to the elections, INEC disclosed that the countdown has begun, urging broadcasters to actively combat fake news, promote voter education, and encourage civic participation. Amupitan stressed that ethical journalism must take precedence over profit, warning that unchecked misinformation could pose a greater danger than physical electoral violence.
