Parleys with media on review of 2023 polls
By Lateef Ibrahim, Abuja
The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has assured that it will continue to welcome suggestions that will improve the future conduct of elections and the electoral process in the country.
The Chairman of INEC, Prof Mahmood Yakubu gave the assurance on Wednesday at a meeting with the Media on the review of the 2023 general election at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja.
While nothing that there are many positive aspects of the 2023 general election, Yakubu swiftly added at the same time that there were also challenges.
According to him, “The Commission will continue to welcome suggestions that will improve the future conduct of elections and the electoral process in Nigeria.
“There are many positive aspects of the 2023 General Election. At the same time, there were challenges.
“The Commission is aware that aspects of the election are being litigated at the various election petition tribunals.
“While we are careful not to touch on issues that are clearly sub-judice, it is appropriate to review the election broadly as enumerated on the agenda for this meeting contained in your folders.
“More specifically, and from your practical experience of reporting or analysing the election, we would like to hear your observationy and suggestions on the processes and procedure”, he said.
The INEC Chairman noted with gladness that there is a long-standing partnership between the Commission and the media “which we appreciate’.
He added, “You (media) remain one of our critical stakeholders. Beyond voter and civic education, we regularly consult you ahead of the formulation of policies or the implementation of activities. “Media organisations are also accredited to cover elections and electoral activities.
“Beyond reporting on our activities, we are also convinced that as citizens, you should be part of the discussion for the overall improvement of our electoral process based on your field observations”, he stressed.
In his remarks at the review meeting, the
President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists, Comrade Chris Isiguzo described it (the meeting) as an invaluable opportunity for introspection and improvement.
According to him, “As President of the NUJ, I urge each one of you to seize this moment to contribute thoughtfully, honestly, and constructively.
“Our collective efforts will shape the future of media involvement in Nigeria’s electoral process and, by extension, the health of our democracy.”
