• Akhaine raises alarm over fake news threat
• Anaba urges responsible journalism
• Poor understanding of electoral laws fuels false expectations, Oloja says

Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE) and a professor of political science have stressed the need for the media, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), voters and other critical stakeholders to uphold democratic values and strengthen the credibility of elections in Nigeria.

The call was made yesterday by Prof. Sylvester Odion Akhaine of the Department of Political Science, Lagos State University (LASU), while delivering the 4th Lateef Jakande Memorial Lecture organised by NGE in Lagos.

Speaking on the theme, “The Media, INEC, Voters and Path to Credible Elections,” Akhaine said credible elections remained the bedrock of democracy and were essential for ensuring political stability, accountability and good governance.

He noted that the quality of elections is often determined by factors such as the conduct of political parties, the legal framework, electoral institutions, electoral participants and the media.

According to him, while democratic elections are expected to be free, fair and transparent, Nigeria’s electoral history has been characterised by controversies, allegations of manipulation and institutional weaknesses that have often undermined public confidence in the electoral process.

The lecturer, however, maintained that democracy remains resilient and could be strengthened through institutional reforms, active citizen participation and adherence to constitutional principles.

On the role of the media, Akhaine said the 1999 Constitution places a responsibility on journalists and media organisations to uphold accountability and promote transparency in governance.

He urged journalists to remain committed to truth, fairness and professionalism, particularly as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections.

Akhaine stated that Nigeria’s democratic future depends on the collective commitment of the media, INEC, political actors and the electorate to democratic principles and credible electoral processes.

The President of the Nigerian Guild of Editors, Eze Anaba, emphasised the role of the media, urging them to remain responsible, professional, accurate, and fair in their coverage.

He noted that the country stands at a defining moment where both the INEC and media are being watched by the voters, stressing that when both institutions perform optimally, voters become better informed, more vigilant, and better equipped to make choices that strengthen democracy.

In his remarks, a former Managing Director and Editor-in-Chief of The Guardian, Martins Oloja, urged Nigerians to deepen their understanding of the Constitution and Electoral Act, warning that poor knowledge of the country’s legal and electoral framework often fuels misinformation, unrealistic political expectations and unnecessary controversies.

He expressed concern that many Nigerians, including political actors, commentators and media practitioners, engage in debates on governance and elections without adequately studying the laws that govern the country’s democratic process.

According to him, a better understanding of the Constitution and electoral laws would enable citizens to make informed contributions to national discourse and appreciate the realities of Nigeria’s political system.

The veteran journalist noted that several amendments have been made to electoral laws over the years, including provisions relating to political parties, party primaries and candidate nominations, but many Nigerians remain unaware of such changes.

He said the lack of familiarity with these provisions often leads to misconceptions about electoral processes and political developments.