FCT Elections: NUJ FCT calls for credible coverage, urges security agencies to protect Journalists

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) council of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) has stressed the need for accuracy, professionalism, and safety in media coverage ahead of the 2026 Area Council elections.

Speaking on Tuesday at a media forum organised by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, Grace Ike, chairperson of NUJ FCT, warned that misinformation could erode public trust and compromise peace.

“Elections are not won only at polling units; elections are also won and lost in the information space,” Ike said, noting the rapid spread of false information in Nigeria and its potential to inflame tension.

She urged journalists to verify information before publication and to resist sacrificing truth for clicks or online engagement. “Breaking news is good, but breaking society is dangerous,” she added.

Ike emphasised the media’s role in promoting unity, particularly in the FCT, describing it as a shared space for all Nigerians. “Our platforms must not become tools for division. Our reports must heal, not inflame,” she said.

The NUJ chairperson called for equitable coverage and equal access for all political actors, stressing that democracy suffers when the press is compromised.

Safety of Journalists Non-Negotiable

On journalists’ safety, Ike issued a stern warning against harassment, intimidation, or denial of access by security agencies, political parties, or supporters.

“Journalists must not be harassed, assaulted, threatened, or denied access. The NUJ will not accept a situation where reporters covering elections are treated as enemies,” she said.

She called on INEC and security agencies to ensure the protection of reporters and their equipment before, during, and after the elections. Ike also urged the electoral body to maintain timely communication to counter misinformation, stressing that “silence creates a vacuum, and a vacuum empowers fake news.”

The NUJ chairperson affirmed that the 2026 FCT area council elections must be remembered for integrity and peace, and pledged the union’s continued commitment to professionalism and press freedom.

The forum, organised as part of INEC’s election preparations, brought together media executives, producers, reporters, and on-air personalities. Ike urged that resolutions reached during the session be fully implemented.

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