The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Oyo State and the state's council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) have solidified a strategic partnership aimed at enhancing voter education and public enlightenment initiatives. This move is designed to foster greater citizen participation and ensure the integrity of the electoral process in the state.
A Crucial Partnership for Credible Elections
The alliance was formalized when the newly inaugurated executive members of the NUJ Oyo State Council, led by their Chairman, Akeem Abas, paid a courtesy visit to the INEC state headquarters in Ibadan. They were received by the Oyo State Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Professor Adeniran Tella.
Professor Tella emphasized the indispensable role of the media in Nigeria's democracy. He described the NUJ as a critical stakeholder in voter enlightenment and the conduct of credible elections. The REC stressed that sustained engagement with journalists would significantly improve public understanding of electoral procedures and build trust in the system.
Key Focus: The Ongoing Voter Registration Drive
A central point of discussion was the second phase of the Continuous Voter Registration (CVR) exercise currently underway in Oyo State. Professor Tella disclosed that the registration, which began on January 5, 2026, is scheduled to run until April 17, 2026.
He provided a detailed breakdown of the grassroots registration schedule:
- The exercise will cover all 351 Registration Areas and wards in the state.
- A rotational registration at the ward level will commence on February 9, 2026.
- This grassroots phase will last for 50 days, operating daily from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, excluding weekends and public holidays.
The REC called on journalists to help amplify public awareness, urging eligible citizens to:
- Register for the first time.
- Update their voter information.
- Transfer their registration to a location closer to their current residence.
Deepening Collaboration Through Training
To cement this partnership, Professor Tella announced that journalists would be incorporated into INEC's monthly capacity-building training programs. This initiative aims to equip media professionals with in-depth knowledge of electoral laws, processes, and technological innovations, enabling more accurate and insightful reporting.
During the visit, NUJ Chairman Akeem Abas, who was accompanied by Vice Chairman Abiodun Atilola, Secretary Temidayo Adu, and Ex-officio Imran Khalid, reaffirmed the union's commitment to the alliance. Abas stated that the NUJ is dedicated to strengthening its relationship with INEC to promote effective citizen participation. He expressed confidence that sustained collaboration would lead to robust voter education campaigns and contribute to more transparent and credible elections in Oyo State.
This renewed partnership between INEC and the media in Oyo State marks a significant step towards an informed electorate and a stronger democratic culture at the grassroots level.
