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From Fred Ezeh, Abuja
The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has demanded for adequate security for journalists that would be involved in the coverage of the FCT Area Council elections.
The Council also urged journalists to prioritise accuracy, professionalism, and safety during the 2026 Area Council elections.
Chairperson of the NUJ FCT Council, Grace Ike, made the demand at a media forum organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, which brought together media executives, producers, reporters, and on-air personalities as part of INEC’s preparations for the 2026 FCT Area Council elections.
She noted that elections are no longer determined solely at polling units, adding that the information space plays a critical role. “Elections are not won only at polling units; elections are also won and lost in the information space. False information spreads rapidly in Nigeria, and could endanger public peace if not addressed.
“In today’s Nigeria, misinformation spreads faster than facts, and if left unchecked can poison public perception, undermine trust in institutions, and threaten the peace we all desire,” Ike said.
She urged journalists to prioritise verification over haste, warning against sacrificing truth for online engagement. “Let us verify before we publish. Let us not trade truth for traffic. Breaking news is good, but breaking society is dangerous,” she said.
She said journalists must uphold professional standards, especially during elections, and advised media practitioners against promoting divisive narratives, describing the FCT as a shared space for all Nigerians.
“The FCT is the home of all Nigerians. We must refuse to be used as tools for division. Our platforms must not become weapons in the hands of desperate politicians. Our reports must heal, not inflame,” she said.
The NUJ chairperson called for equitable coverage and equal access for all political actors. “We must ensure equitable coverage and access for all political actors. Democracy suffers when the media is captured. The credibility of the press depends on independence, professionalism and fairness,” Ike said.
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The NUJ Chairperson said the NUJ would not tolerate intimidation, harassment, or denial of access to journalists by security agencies. “Let me state this clearly: journalists must not be harassed, assaulted, threatened or denied access. The NUJ will not accept a situation where Reporters covering elections are treated as enemies.
“We, therefore, call on INEC, security agencies, political parties and their supporters to respect the media and guarantee the safety of journalists and their equipment before, during and after the elections.”
Ike also asked the electoral umpire to strengthen communication with the media to counter misinformation.
“INEC must continue to provide timely updates and accessible verification channels to shut down rumours and fake results. In an election season, silence creates a vacuum, and a vacuum empowers misinformation,” Ike said.
The NUJ chairperson said the 2026 FCT area council elections must be remembered for integrity and peace.
She reaffirmed the union’s commitment to professionalism and press freedom, noting that press freedom must be upheld.
