INEC Warns Nigerian Broadcasters on 2027 Election Misinformation

Joash Amupitan, chairman of the Nigeria===Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has warned the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria (BON) that misinformation amplified by media poses the greatest threat to Nigeria's 2027 general election. Speaking at BON's 81st general assembly, Amupitan emphasized that elections are increasingly decided in the 'information space'. He highlighted provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, including mandatory equal airtime for political parties, strict penalties for violations, and a 24-hour 'media blackout' before election day. Amupitan also cautioned against hate speech and inciting content. He raised concerns about enforcement gaps, commercialization of airtime, and the dominance of incumbents in media coverage, calling for stronger collaboration between INEC, BON, security agencies, and the judiciary, alongside improved editorial standards. The Nigeria===Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) stressed the importance of real-time fact-checking, voter mobilization, and prioritizing professionalism over profit to safeguard the integrity of Nigeria's democracy.