The group that runs elections in Nigeria, called INEC, is helping reporters who will cover the big governor election on November 16 in Ondo State. They are giving out phone numbers, like a special hotline, so journalists can check facts and make sure their news is right.
Amosa Lamidi, who works at INEC in the election department, talked about this during a workshop with news people in Akure, the main city of Ondo State. He said these hotline numbers will be shared with reporters before the election day.
Someone named Tope Onojobi, speaking on behalf of Amosa Lamidi, also promised that there will be a special place called a situation room. Here, people will answer phone calls from journalists to give updates and answer questions during the election time.
INEC asked the media experts to help make sure news reports are real and correct. This way, they can help stop any fighting or problems that might happen if people get wrong information.
Sam Olumekun, who is a big boss at INEC and takes care of information and voter education, said it’s important for reporters to watch over politicians and even INEC so everyone tells the truth.
In Ondo State, Mrs. Oluwatoyin Babalola, who represents the INEC leaders, promised to keep giving reporters the right information about the election as soon as possible.
“We all need to work together to solve problems like people not caring about voting, getting false information, or having trouble getting their voter cards,” she said. “With your help, we can make sure every person who can vote in Ondo State is ready to speak up and vote when the election comes.”