FCT Polls: NUJ FCT Calls for Credible Coverage, Urges Security Agencies to Protect Journalists

FCT Polls: NUJ FCT Calls for Credible Coverage, Urges Security Agencies to Protect Journalists

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has urged media practitioners to uphold accuracy, professionalism, and safety in their coverage of the 2026 Area Council elections.

Speaking on Tuesday at a media forum organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, the NUJ FCT Chairperson, Grace Ike, warned that misinformation could erode public trust and threaten peace.

She noted that elections are no longer decided solely at polling units, stressing the growing influence of the information space.

“Elections are not won only at polling units; elections are also won and lost in the information space,” Ike said.

According to her, the rapid spread of false information in Nigeria poses a serious risk to public order if not checked.

“In today’s Nigeria, misinformation spreads faster than facts, and if left unchecked, it can poison public perception, undermine trust in institutions, and threaten the peace we all desire,” she added.

Ike cautioned journalists against prioritising speed and online traffic over truth, urging them to verify information before publication.

“Let us verify before we publish. Let us not trade truth for traffic. Breaking news is good, but breaking society is dangerous,” she said.

She emphasised the need for journalists to uphold professional standards during the elections and avoid promoting divisive narratives, describing the FCT as a shared home for all Nigerians.

“The FCT is the home of all Nigerians. We must refuse to be used as tools for division. Our platforms must not become weapons in the hands of desperate politicians. Our reports must heal, not inflame,” Ike stated.

The NUJ chairperson also called for equitable media coverage and equal access for all political actors.

“We must ensure equitable coverage and access for all political actors. Democracy suffers when the media is captured. The credibility of the press depends on independence, professionalism and fairness,” she said.

No compromise on journalists’ safety

On the safety of reporters, Ike said the NUJ would not tolerate intimidation, harassment, or denial of access to journalists by security agencies.

“Let me state this clearly: journalists must not be harassed, assaulted, threatened or denied access. The NUJ will not accept a situation where reporters covering elections are treated as enemies,” she said.

She called on INEC, security agencies, political parties, and their supporters to respect the media and guarantee the safety of journalists and their equipment before, during, and after the elections.

Ike further urged INEC to strengthen its communication with the media to curb misinformation.

“INEC must continue to provide timely updates and accessible verification channels to shut down rumours and fake results. In an election season, silence creates a vacuum, and a vacuum empowers misinformation,” she warned.

She said the 2026 FCT Area Council elections must be remembered for integrity and peace, reaffirming the NUJ’s commitment to professionalism and press freedom. Ike also called for the full implementation of resolutions reached at the forum.

The forum brought together media executives, producers, reporters, and on-air personalities as part of INEC’s preparations for the 2026 FCT Area Council elections.