By: Olusegun Ogunkayode[RovroundNews]
The Independent National Electoral Commission has assured media practitioners in Osun State of full cooperation ahead of the August 15 governorship election, pledging to deliver a credible, free, fair, inclusive and transparent electoral process.
The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Osun State, Mrs Oluwatoyin Babalola, gave the assurance on Monday, 11th May, 2026 during a courtesy visit by the Osun Online Publishers Association(OOPA)to the INEC state office in Osogbo.
Speaking during the meeting, Babalola described the media as a critical stakeholder in the electoral process and society at large, stressing the importance of accurate and balance information dissemination, especially during elections.
“If there is no media, the society cannot be informed. When it comes to election matters, there is misinformation and disinformation, and the media is needed to correct these anomalies,” she said.
The REC assured journalists and online publishers that the commission would maintain a cordial working relationship with the media community to ensure the success of the forthcoming governorship poll.
Stressing further, she said INEC would rely heavily on the media for voter education and the dissemination of accurate information regarding electoral activities across the state.
Mrs Babalola maintained that the media plays a significant role in promoting peaceful coexistence and tolerance within society, adding that the commission would also play its part in ensuring members of the public are adequately informed throughout the election period.
She warned against tampering with election results, stressing that the offence attracts jail terms with no option of fine under the Electoral Act.
She also urged media practitioners and their organisations to register for accreditation ahead of election day to enable them carry out their duties without restrictions.
The REC disclosed that security agencies had assured the commission of adequate protection of lives and property before, during and after the election.
Earlier in his remarks, the Chairman of the Osun Online Publishers Association, Abioye Lawrence, welcomed the REC to the state and urged her to work closely with media practitioners in delivering a credible governorship election on August 15, 2026.
