Abuja, Nigeria — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially launched an online registration platform for media outlets and journalists intending to cover the upcoming Ondo State governorship election, scheduled for November 16, 2024. This announcement was made by Sam Olumekun, Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee and National Commissioner of INEC, in a statement on Monday.
According to the release, the media registration portal is now fully operational and will remain accessible until midnight on Thursday, October 31, 2024. Journalists and media organizations are encouraged to use the platform to obtain accreditation to cover the electoral process.
Olumekun reiterated INEC’s commitment to transparency and an open democratic process, emphasizing that the role of the media is vital in ensuring that the public stays informed during elections. The commission has streamlined the accreditation process to enhance efficiency and make it easier for media professionals to participate in election coverage.
“We encourage all media practitioners who plan to cover the Ondo State governorship election to complete their accreditation via the online platform. This initiative is part of our continuous efforts to modernize and simplify access to electoral information,” said Olumekun.
INEC has taken several measures to ensure that the election process is smooth, transparent, and accessible, both for voters and observers. The media, in particular, will play a crucial role in monitoring the election and providing timely and accurate information to the public. The platform aims to facilitate the participation of media organizations in the democratic process while maintaining strict adherence to deadlines.
As the countdown to the Ondo State election continues, INEC is preparing for what is expected to be a closely watched race, with multiple parties competing for the governorship seat. The media’s ability to report freely and fairly will be essential in maintaining public trust in the electoral process.
