Osun 2026: INEC Calls on Media to Safeguard Democracy Through Fact‑Based Reporting

The Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Osun State, Dr. Mutiu Agboke, has called on media practitioners to uphold their role as gatekeepers of factual and credible information.

Dr. Agboke urged journalists to remain vigilant against digital manipulation, serve as watchdogs for democracy and continue educating the public amid the rising tide of misinformation.

He disclosed this while delivering a lecture titled ‘Harnessing Technology Towards Credible Elections and Effective Information Dissemination in Nigeria’ at the 2025 Osun Digital Media Week, organised by the Osun Online Publishers Association (OOPA), held on Thursday in Osogbo.

The REC noted that INEC considered credible information dissemination a crucial pillar of the electoral process and called on digital publishers, journalists, political actors, civil societies and citizens to work together to ensure that technology is used as an instrument of truth and a tool for credibility.

Agboke said, “Your commitment to responsible digital journalism is not only admirable, it is essential for the survival of our democracy.

According to him, “Technology has consistently expanded the frontiers of transparency and accountability in our elections.”

“Online publishers must serve as gatekeepers of factual information and ensure that misinformation did not undermine the electoral process.

“We must deepen this partnership by improving fact-checking mechanisms, ensuring access to verified data, and combating fake news with speed and precision.”

Agboke reiterated the commission’s commitment to protecting the integrity of the ballot, stating that every eligible vote must count.

“The future of elections in Nigeria depends on how ethically we deploy technology Technology may power the future of elections, but the character of those who use it determines the outcome.”

In her address, the mother of the day, General Manager of the Osun Community Service Development Agency (CSDA), Mrs. Funmi Abokede, urged the media practitioners to uphold the highest standards of professionalism in their reportage.

She said, “I want to implore you, as media practitioners, to uphold the ethics of your profession; the 2026 election is approaching, so don’t be biased in your reportage.”

In his welcome address, the OOPA Chairman, Mukhtar Ajelogbon said the digital week provided members the resilience to celebrate innovations and contributions of online publishers across Osun State.