The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed deep concern over the weaponization of election-related disinformation in the upcoming November 11 polls.
The electoral body described this trend as highly alarming and detrimental to the democratic process.
Efforts to Combat Misinformation
Speaking at a two-day capacity building and workshop organized for the INEC Press Corps in Nasarawa, National Commissioner and Member of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Prof. Kunle Ajayi, emphasized the importance of professionalism, ethical practices, and high standards in reporting election matters.
The workshop, sponsored by the Development Alternatives Incorporated (DAI), aimed to equip journalists with the necessary skills to tackle disinformation effectively.
Prof. Ajayi underlined the urgency of this workshop as it precedes the off-cycle governorship elections scheduled for November 11, 2023.
The Impact of Disinformation
Referring to the 2023 general elections, Prof. Ajayi acknowledged the Commission’s unpleasant encounter with fake news and stressed the need to address this issue proactively.
He highlighted how disinformation is used as a tool to inflame religious, political, and ethnic divisions, particularly during election seasons, ultimately leading to electoral violence and uprisings.
The national commissioner remarked, “The alarming prevalence of misinformation, ‘fake news’, hate speech, and the weaponization of disinformation has become very worrisome to the Commission.”
He further explained that nefarious individuals and groups exploit election-related disinformation, manipulating the public for their own gain, disregarding the severe consequences their propaganda may have on the peace and stability of the electoral process and the country as a whole.
Responsibility of the Media
Prof. Ajayi called upon the media to uphold objectivity and impartiality in their reportage, refraining from spreading fake news and inciting stories.
