INEC Chairman Amupitan Urges Fair Media Practices for Elections

On April 8, 2026, during the 81st General Assembly, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, the Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), addressed broadcast media houses in Nigeria. He emphasized the critical role of broadcast media in promoting equal opportunities for political parties and ensuring fair electoral processes as outlined in the Electoral Act 2026.

Amupitan urged media organizations to operate within legal frameworks to support democracy and facilitate credible elections. He highlighted the challenges posed by incumbents' advantages, commercialized political airtime, and weak enforcement mechanisms that undermine equitable media access.

Furthermore, he noted the complexities introduced by the convergence of traditional and digital media, which complicate regulatory efforts. Amupitan called for a holistic approach to media management, integrating legal clarity and institutional strength to uphold professional ethics and transparency in the electoral process, ultimately contributing to the consolidation of Nigeria's democracy.