Chairman of the INEC Press Corps, Segun Ojumu, has charged members of the corps to uphold patriotism, professionalism and integrity in their reportage as the country prepares for the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections and the buildup to the 2027 General Elections.
Ojumu gave the charge in a goodwill message to members of the INEC Press Corps to mark the Eid-el-Fitr celebration, where he congratulated Muslim journalists in the corps on the successful completion of the 30-day Ramadan fast.
In the message titled, “Eid Mubarak: A Message of Reflection, Patriotism, and Purpose,” the INEC Press Corps chairman said the period of fasting, prayer and self-discipline mirrors the resilience, sacrifice and commitment required of journalists covering Nigeria’s electoral process.
He described members of the press corps as critical stakeholders and “watchmen” of the nation’s democracy, stressing that their role becomes even more significant as preparations intensify for the 2026 off-cycle governorship elections in Ekiti and Osun states.
According to him, the country is already entering another crucial election season, with the roadmap to the 2027 General Elections gradually taking shape, making credible and responsible reporting more important than ever.
Ojumu urged members of the corps to bring a renewed sense of dedication and patriotism to their work, noting that the credibility and evolution of Nigeria’s electoral process depend largely on the integrity of media reportage.
“The evolution of our elections depends largely on the integrity of our reportage. I call on us all to bring a renewed sense of dedication and patriotism to our desks. As the bridge between the umpire and the electorate, we are not just reporters; we are active participants in the building of a more transparent and credible democracy,” he said.
He further admonished journalists to allow the lessons of sacrifice, patience and discipline imbibed during Ramadan to guide them through the demands and pressures of the coming election months.
The INEC Press Corps chairman said the nation relies on journalists to remain objective, insightful and courageous in reporting electoral developments, stressing that such commitment is essential to deepening public trust in the democratic process.
While wishing members and their families a peaceful and joyful Eid-el-Fitr celebration, Ojumu encouraged them to use the holiday period as a time of reflection and renewal before returning to what he described as the “frontlines” of national duty.
He also urged members of the corps to stay safe during the festivities and resume fully prepared for the important tasks ahead in covering the nation’s electoral activities.
The message comes amid growing political activities ahead of the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections, which are expected to serve as a major test of the Independent National Electoral Commission’s readiness under the Electoral Act 2026, as well as a precursor to the 2027 General Elections.
