Ahead of the November 8, 2025 governorship election in Anambra state, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cautioned media practitioners against publishing unverified information and to uphold truth, professionalism, and balance in their reportage.
The National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee (IVEC), Mr. Sam Olumekun, gave the charge on Tuesday, at a forum for media executives, reporters, producers, and on-air personalities held in Awka, Anambra state.
The meeting was part of the Commission’s engagement with key stakeholders ahead of the off-cycle governorship poll in the state.
Olumekun said the media was “society’s mirror” and “the oxygen of democracy,” stressing that journalists occupied a sacred space in shaping public understanding of the electoral process.
He commended the media for its balanced reportage during the recent bye-election in Anambra state and called for continued professionalism in the build-up to the next month’s poll.
The National Commissioner assured of INEC’s transparency and commitment to credible and inclusive elections, while highlighting the critical role of the media in combating misinformation.
“We all have a duty to stop the spread of false stories, manipulated videos, and unverified claims that can create unnecessary tension and erode public trust,” Olumekun said.
He added, “I therefore call on the media, particularly editors, news producers, and on-air personalities, to verify before amplifying. Let truth remain your only compass. As the saying goes, ‘a lie can travel halfway around the world while the truth is still putting on its shoes.’ Let us ensure that truth runs faster this election season.”
The INEC National Commissioner reaffirmed the Commission’s readiness for the Anambra election, disclosing that all non-sensitive materials had been delivered to the state.
He stated that sensitive materials would arrive shortly under tight security.
He also announced that Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) from the recently concluded Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise in Anambra are now available for collection between Wednesday, October 22, and Sunday, October 26, 2025, at designated ward centres.
Olumekun emphasised that there would be no collection of PVCs by proxy and solicited media support in mobilising eligible voters to pick up their cards.
He stated that INEC’s preparations also included readiness assessments, stakeholder engagements, and mock accreditation exercises to ensure a free, fair, and credible process.
He reminded the media that the online accreditation portal for the Anambra election, opened since September 1, will close at midnight on Thursday, October 24, 2025.
He stressed that there would be no late submissions or extensions, and only accredited journalists will be granted access to election venues and facilities.
