There is need for concerted efforts of all stakeholders to ensure that the forthcoming Governorship election in Ondo State is not only fair and transparent but also a true reflection of the will and aspirations of voters.
This formed part of remarks by Executive Director, International Press Centre Mr Lanre Arogundade at Ikogosi-Ekiti during a Two-Day Workshop organised for about forty senior staff of Independent National Electoral Commission INEC on Effective Communication in the Election Process.
The IPC Executive Director who said as stakeholders prepare for Ondo State governorship election scheduled for November 2024, the importance of effective communication cannot be overstated as it would not only help to counter misinformation but also fosters an environment where citizens feel empowered to participate in democratic process.
Earlier the Ondo State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Oluwatoyin Babalola acknowleged that the success of any election process relies on effective communication which must be carried out by professionalism, transparency, and empathy necessary to reinforce public confidence in electoral system.
The INEC boss expressed confident that the workshop would equip all participants to have better knowledge on communication challenges that lie ahead, as they prepare to deliver elections that are not only credible but also inclusive and peaceful.
She encouraged the participants to actively bring their insights and experiences to bare while appreciating International Press Centre who gathered experienced facilitators to lead the participants through key topics.
Facilitators including Dr. Monday Ashibogwu, Managing Editor of Quick News, and Mr. Femi Akinbiyi, former Deputy Director of Voter Education and Publicity at INEC for Oyo, Lagos, and Ekiti States; Dr. Adebola Adeniyi-Agbaje, General Manager of Radio Nigeria Ado-Ekiti and were selected to address varieties of topics towards the attainment of the objectives.
INEC officials from Ondo State Mr. Biodun Onikate-Amosu, the Administrative Secretary, along with Directors, Heads of Departments, Assistant Directors were also in attendance.
