INEC Allows Journalists Free Entry To Polling, Collation Centres For Edo/Ondo Election

Journalists have been conferred with the right to be at voting and collation centres unhindered in a remarkable gesture for transparency, and responsibility made by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) during the Edo and Ondo State elections. It is one of several steps being taken to make sure elections are conducted in an open, fair and transparent manner as a means of strengthening public confidence in the electoral process.

 

The Media in Elections

During the election, the media is the most important part of any democratic society. As the 4th estate, journalists function as watchdogs who report real-time events happening during election processes. Active as party agents both in the polling units and collation centres, their importance is crucial to checkmate rigging of elections with genuine results that reflect truly the wishes of voters. INEC is not only promoting transparency by giving the journalists an unencumbered opportunity to access and observe the election but also empowering them to be able to make checks and balances in holding it accountable.


The Significance of Unchecked Access

Cameroonian election officials have defended their actions saying that they do so in a bid to forestall attempts by those aiming at disrupting the electoral process. With this new policy, INEC is making a giant leap towards responding to these fears. It can also provide journalists the freedom to report with limited emergency restrictions in place as it happens and shortly after providing up-to-date, accurate information. This transparency is crucial to instil confidence in the electoral results, especially at a time when disinformation and concerns about election integrity can quickly spread.


A New Perspective on Electoral Transparency

Although this step by INEC is commendable, the overall implication remains to a great extent controversial. Unfettered media access can improve transparency and guarantee a free-from-manipulation election process. If you are on the other end, that's a big toll on media credibility and transparency. The success of this policy will be judged not just by the access that INEC avails journalists, but also by how professional and reliable those who cover elections are.


Building Dialogs with a Positive Approach

It will no doubt prompt debates on media freedom and the extent to which journalists should press for access as democracies go to polls. These conversations must stay constructive and reasonable. Celebrating the strides we have made in being able to access this is one thing, but so too must recognise what it means for our right and responsibility to liberty.


Conclusion: Progress for Democracy

The decision of INEC to grant journalists free access to voting and collation centres, during the Edo elections in Ondo last year was one that is laudable for democracy in Nigeria. This is important to demonstrate accountability and transparency, ensuring that public trust in the electoral process remains intact. We have a responsibility as voters to be informed, respectfully debate issues with others and then go to the polls.