Journalists covering elections in Nigeria have been urged to strictly adhere to the codes and regulations that govern reporting during electoral processes. This call to action was made by the Executive Director of the International Press Centre (IPC), Lanre Arogundade, during a one-day training session for journalists from the North West region, held in Kano. The training was part of the European Union’s Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria, Phase II programme, aimed at supporting the media in their critical role in the democratic process.
The training identified several challenges that journalists face when reporting on elections, including insecurity and threats, political pressure, censorship, the spread of fake information and misinformation, and poor access to information. In addressing these challenges, Arogundade emphasized the importance of media houses being ethical and professional in their election coverage. He underscored that adhering to the “Nigeria Media Codes of Election Coverage” would be pivotal in minimizing the problems associated with election reporting.
Arogundade also highlighted that journalists can access the revised Nigeria Media Codes of Election Coverage through mobile app stores or in hard copy, providing them with a vital tool for safe and responsible reporting during elections. The training, which was conducted for selected journalists from Kano, Jigawa, Katsina, and Kaduna States, serves as a proactive measure to enhance the quality and integrity of election coverage in Nigeria.
The initiative by the IPC, with the support of the European Union, reflects a broader effort to strengthen democratic governance in Nigeria through improved media practices. By focusing on the ethical and professional aspects of election reporting, the training aims to contribute to a more transparent, fair, and peaceful electoral process. As Nigeria and other countries around the world navigate the complexities of democratic elections, the role of the media in providing accurate, unbiased information cannot be overstated. The appeal for journalists to adhere to codes and regulations during election coverage is a reminder of the media’s responsibility in shaping public opinion and ensuring the integrity of the democratic process.
