ABEOKUTA– As the much anticipated 2021 Local Government elections in Ogun State draws nearer, the media has been described as a very crucial stakeholder in engendering free, fair and credible elections as its role cannot be overestimated.
To this end, the Ogun State independent Electoral Commission (OGSIEC) recently put together a media parley, to appreciate the media, evaluate and further brainstorm on its preparation for the exercise.
Speaking during the parley, held in Abeokuta, Chairman of the Commission, Mr. Babatunde Osibodu, noted that it was necessary to recognize the immense contribution of the media in sensitizing the people, saying, without the media, the people will not be aware of the activities of the Commission.
“I want you to know that we owe you in high esteem, we recognize you as the Fourth Estate of the Realm, your role in elections cannot be overemphasized. Without the Media, the people will not know that election is holding on 24th of July, let alone be aware of our preparations and the need to know what is expected of the people on the day of the elections. With your support and ardent backing for us as a Commission, we know the people of Ogun State will further hear us loud and clear, we are rest assured that the people trust you to give them the news as it is.”, Osibodu said.
While responding to questions and suggestions during the Parley, the OGSIEC boss stated that the Commission was intensifying efforts to ensure that voter education is extended to the hinterland and to the people at the grassroots, making use of posters and jingles in English, Yoruba as well as Egun Languages, adding that Paramount Rulers and other Traditional Rulers had been visited to help propagate the gospel of free, fair and credible elections.
In their separate remarks, the General Manager, Ogun State Broadcasting Corporation (OGBC), Mrs. Toyin Sogbesan, Secretary, and State Media Analysis Team, Mr. Lanre Ogunyinka appreciated the Commission for its robust media engagements, calling for security of journalists during the elections, sustenance of the momentum by intensifying voter education.
The event was attended by Commissioners and top management of OGSIEC, media personalities from the electronic and print media, Freelance and Independent Broadcasters Association of Nigeria (FIBAN) as well as bloggers
