Remarks by the President, NUJ, Comrade Chris Isiguzo MFR at the 2023 General Election Review Meeting with the Media put together by the INEC at its headquarters in Abuja on July 26, 2023
Today, I stand before you with a deep sense of responsibility and pride as we come together for this momentous 2023 General Election Review Meeting. As President of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), I extend my warmest greetings and heartfelt appreciation to each one of you for gracing this quarterly consultative meeting, which holds profound significance for our nation’s democracy and the role of the media.
The 2023 General Elections were a defining moment in our history, where the collective voice of the people resonated through the ballot box. As the fourth estate of the realm, we, the media, played a crucial role in upholding the pillars of democracy – transparency, accountability, and the right to information.
Today, our focus lies on four key areas that have shaped the electoral process:
- Accreditation of Media Organizations and Personnel:
The pivotal role of the media in the electoral process cannot be overemphasized. Our task of reporting information with accuracy and impartiality is only possible when media organizations and personnel are accredited efficiently. Let us use this platform to assess the accreditation process during the 2023 elections and explore ways to enhance its effectiveness. By streamlining this process, we can ensure that qualified journalists have unhindered access to cover election events, fostering trust and credibility in our reporting. - Coverage of the Election by Mainstream, Social, and Online Media:
In an era dominated by technology, the dissemination of information has transcended traditional boundaries. The 2023 elections witnessed an unprecedented convergence of mainstream, social, and online media in shaping public opinion. As we reflect on our media coverage during the elections, let us recognize the power we hold in influencing perspectives and narratives. We must critically analyze the impact of our reporting, ensuring that it remains fair, balanced, and free from any undue influence. Striking this balance is essential for fostering an informed and engaged citizenry. - Public Enlightenment and Voter Education:
An enlightened and educated electorate is the backbone of any thriving democracy. Our commitment to public enlightenment and voter education remains unwavering. During the 2023 elections, we undertook the noble responsibility of educating citizens on their rights, the electoral process, and the candidates vying for various offices. Let us take this opportunity to evaluate the effectiveness of our voter education initiatives and strategize on innovative approaches to reach a broader audience. By empowering citizens with knowledge, we strengthen the foundation of our democracy. - Access to Media; Reportage; Hate Speech; and Fake News:
While the media plays a crucial role in fostering democracy, we also face challenges that demand our unwavering attention. The rise of hate speech and fake news poses a threat to the fabric of our society. As we review the 2023 elections, let us candidly address the issue of hate speech and misinformation, seeking ways to combat them without infringing on the principles of free speech. Additionally, we must discuss how to ensure equitable access to media platforms for all political actors, promoting inclusivity and fair representation.
In conclusion, this review meeting is an invaluable opportunity for introspection and improvement. 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.
I extend my heartfelt gratitude to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for fostering this vital partnership with the media. Together, we will continue to uphold the values of truth, integrity, and public service, ensuring that our democracy thrives for generations to come.
Thank you, and let us embark on this important journey of reflection and progress.
