A broadcast journalist and lecturer at the National Broadcast Academy, Mrs. Margaret Ekeh, has called on the media to place greater emphasis on credible electoral processes in the lead-up to next year’s general elections.
She made the appeal during Media Watch, a current affairs programme on Radio One 103.5 FM, where she highlighted the influence of media narratives on voter participation.
Mrs. Ekeh cautioned that excessive reporting on election rigging could discourage citizens from taking part in the electoral process.
She stressed the importance of balancing such reports with coverage that highlights areas where the system is functioning effectively.
Encouraging Nigerians to remain actively involved in the democratic process, she noted that voting remains a vital means of influencing leadership, adding that governance will continue regardless of public participation.
She also urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to strengthen its technological infrastructure, pointing out that system failures often result in a return to manual processes, which can erode public confidence in elections.
In addition, Mrs. Ekeh advised voters to conduct themselves responsibly during elections by avoiding violence, refraining from harassing electoral officials, and contributing to a peaceful process.
While acknowledging that elections may not be perfect, she maintained that active citizen participation is essential to strengthening democracy.
Written by Heritage Adebisi