By Omeiza Ajayi

The Independent National Electoral Commission INEC has accredited Vanguard Media Limited (Publishers of Vanguard Newspaper Titles) and 111 other media houses for the coverage of the November 16 Governorship Election in Ondo state.

INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu who disclosed this on Friday in Abuja during the fourth regular consultative meeting with Media organizations, added that over 700 journalists have also been accredited for the polls.

He said; “The portal for media accreditation for the Ondo State Governorship election shut down at midnight yesterday.

“The Commission is glad to announce the accreditation of 112 national and international media organisations (newspaper, radio, television and online) deploying over 700 journalists, technicians and other personnel to facilitate their coverage of the election. The detailed breakdown of the media organisations and the number of personnel to be deployed will be uploaded to our website and social media platforms for public information”.

Yakubu said even as the commission prepares for the Ondo State Governorship election, it is not unmindful of its other electoral obligations.

According to him, the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the Anambra State Governorship election was released recently.

“As required by law, the Commission is under obligation to publish the timetable not later than 360 days before the date fixed for the election. The idea is to provide ample time to those involved in elections as political parties, candidates, observers, the media and security agencies to prepare”, he stated.

He also appealed to the media to intensify accurate reportage that will ensure peaceful elections, especially now that campaign by political parties and candidates is in full swing in the State.

“I also appeal to you to continue to serve as a counterforce against fake news, misinformation and disinformation. I am glad to note that there has been no major incident of election-related violence known to the Commission in Ondo State so far. However, we are aware of flash points in some Local Government Area to which we have already drawn the attention of the security agencies”, he said.