Amupitan Advocates Stricter Media Guidelines for 2027 Elections

On April 8, 2026, during the 81st General Assembly of Broadcast Organizations Nigeria (BON) in Abuja, Prof. Joash Amupitan, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), urged the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) to implement stricter internal editorial guidelines within media organizations ahead of the 2027 elections. He highlighted the importance of maintaining the integrity of Nigeria's airwaves, which he described as a "sanctuary of truth." Amupitan warned that the upcoming elections, scheduled for January 16 and February 6, 2027, could be threatened by misinformation and divisive rhetoric.

He pointed out that Section 96(1) of the electoral act prohibits the use of inflammatory language that could incite ethnic or religious tensions. He also emphasized the need for a 24-hour cool-off period before elections to prevent last-minute propaganda.

Amupitan proposed legal reforms for clearer statutory definitions and stronger coordination between INEC and NBC to enhance media independence and ensure equitable access to airwaves during the electoral period.