“Public Trust is Key to Credible Elections, Not Technology” – INEC Chairman

By Emmanuel Kwada 

The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Amupitan, has declared that public trust, rather than technological advancements, is the cornerstone of credible elections in Nigeria.

The statement came during the highly anticipated launch of the book The INEC Press Corps: Chronicles of Nigeria’s Election Journalists by Segun Ojumu, Chairman of the INEC Press Corps, held in Abuja on Saturday.

The event, attended by senior INEC officials, media executives, political party representatives, security operatives, civil society groups, and members of the diplomatic corps, underscored the critical role of journalism in safeguarding democracy.

Prof. Amupitan, speaking at the podium adorned with the INEC emblem, emphasized that even the most sophisticated electoral systems can falter without the confidence of the electorate.

“Public trust, not technology, drives credible elections,” Amupitan asserted, addressing a captivated audience. He warned that misinformation poses a significant threat to electoral integrity, urging journalists to verify information through INEC’s digital channels to counter false narratives. “The era of rumor-based reporting must end. If in doubt, verify with us directly,” he added.

The book launch featured a ceremonial unveiling of The INEC Press Corps, a publication documenting the sacrifices, risks, and resilience of election journalists in Nigeria’s challenging electoral environment.

Ojumu, the author, expressed hope that the book would inspire more reporters to share their stories, stressing the need to protect election journalists. “Democracy thrives only when the messenger is safe,” he said.

Amupitan praised the INEC Press Corps as vital intermediaries between the commission and voters, highlighting their influence on shaping public perception during recent elections.

He called for stronger partnerships between INEC, political parties, security agencies, and the media to address issues like vote buying, rigging, and misinformation. “Credibility is the foundation of our democracy,” he noted.

The event showcased a series of engaging moments, including a group photo of dignitaries holding copies of the new book and a display of stacked publications under festive decorations.

The atmosphere was charged with optimism as attendees recognized the book’s potential to serve as a “roadmap for a more accountable electoral future,” as described by Amupitan.