In a recent address at the iVerify project launch in Abuja, Prof Mahmood Yakubu, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), emphasized the grave threat posed by hate speech to the integrity of the electoral process. Represented by the Acting Director, Voter Education and Publicity, Yakubu underscored the detrimental impact of hate speech on social cohesion and democratic principles.
Yakubu highlighted the multifaceted dangers of hate speech to the electoral process, citing its potential to undermine democratic values, disrupt social harmony, incite violence and intolerance, divert political discourse, and erode trust in democratic institutions. He emphasized that hate speech perpetuates discrimination, fuels social division, and undermines the core principles of democracy, posing a direct threat to the peaceful conduct of elections.
Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre (IPC), echoed the urgency of combating the proliferation of disinformation, misinformation, and hate speech in electoral and democratic processes. Arogundade stressed the need for capacity building among journalists to enhance fact-checking of electoral information, promote media literacy, and foster collaboration to advocate for credible information dissemination.
Arogundade emphasized the role of journalists as guardians against disinformation, urging them to embrace fact-checking methods and exercise unbiased reporting devoid of partisan prejudices. He underscored the importance of media literacy in educating journalists, media professionals, and the public, emphasizing its pivotal role in curbing the dissemination of misinformation.
In conclusion, the concerted efforts of stakeholders, including INEC and media practitioners, are crucial in combating the scourge of hate speech and disinformation, safeguarding the democratic process, and upholding the principles of equality and transparency in elections. The fight against hate speech demands vigilance, collaborative advocacy, and the unwavering commitment of all stakeholders to ensure the integrity of the electoral process and the preservation of democratic values.
