Nigeria Elections

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Communique of Stakeholders’ Technical Meeting on FOI Amendment Bill and Reporting/Compliance Mechanisms

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Communique of Stakeholders’ Technical Meeting on FOI Amendment Bill and Reporting/Compliance Mechanisms Introduction The International Press Centre (IPC), in collaboration with the Policy and Legal Advocacy Centre (PLAC) and YIAGA Africa, with the support of the European Union, convened a two-day stakeholders’ technical session on the proposed Freedom of Information (FOI) Act Amendment Bills with a view to addressing mechanisms for enhanced reporting and compliance standards. The organisations, as implementing partners for the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria, Phase II (EU-SDGN II), hosted the meeting on Monday, July 28 and Tuesday, July 29, 2025, at the BON Octagon Hotel in Abuja. The event was attended by participants from various stakeholder groups, such as the FOI Unit of the Federal Ministry of Justice and the Office of the Attorney-General of the Federation, the National Assembly, the Nigerian Law Reform Commission, civil society organisations, media professional bodies, media organisations, the legal profession, academic institutions, and others. The EU-SDGNII initiative seeks to promote pluralistic, participatory, and representative democracy in Nigeria through five components that incorporate support for INEC, the National Assembly and Judiciary, the political parties, the civil society, the media, women, youths and persons with disability. One of the expected results of Component 4: Support to media of the initiative of which IPC is the lead implementing partner is to facilitate improved compliance and usage of the FOI Act. The Abuja technical meeting therefore aimed to review the FOI Amendment Bills and create a Position Paper summarising key stakeholders’ input from sectors like media, law, civil society, academia, and government. The objective was to support the effective implementation of the FOI Act to promote transparency in elections and governance. At the opening ceremony, welcome remarks were given by Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director of the International Press Centre, followed by messages from Dr. Akin Akingbulu Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), Ms. Nkiru Uzodi (PLAC), and Mr. Godwin Garuba, Head of the FOI unit from the Federal Ministry of Justice, who also represented the Attorney General and Minister of Justice. Sessions After the opening ceremony, Mr. Arogundade presented an overview of the Amendment Bills at the first plenary session, followed by Mr. Edetaen Ojo of Media Rights Agenda discussing gaps in the FOI Act and potential amendments to enhance enforcement and compliance. After the presentations, participants discussed key issues and then divided into groups to review the FOI Act section by section, identifying provisions and sections for proposed amendments to the National Assembly. During the plenary session on Day Two, breakout groups shared their recommendations for amending the FOI Act. After a detailed discussion, it was agreed to form a committee of experts to consolidate these recommendations into a position paper. Subsequent presentations discussed the legislative process and implementing meeting recommendations. Mr. Ojo (Media Rights Agenda) and Ms. Uzodi (PLAC) spoke on “Taking the Issues Forward: Engaging the Law-Making Process at the National Assembly”. The technical meeting concluded with participants adopting this communique containing their observations and recommendations: Observations Recommendations Adopted in Abuja, this 29th Day of July 2025. Signed: Dr. Ruqqayah Aliyu, Bayero University Kano         Mr. Lanre Arogundade, International Press Centre For Rapporteurs                                                          For Conveners

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EDO DECIDES: IPC TASKS JOURNALISTS, SECURITY OPERATIVES AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS ON SAFETY

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Press Release EDO DECIDES: IPC TASKS JOURNALISTS, SECURITY OPERATIVES AND OTHER STAKEHOLDERS ON SAFETY For immediate release, September 19, 2024 The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos- Nigeria has enjoined journalists and other media professionals that would be on electoral duty in Edo State on Saturday, 21st September 2024 to pay deserved attention to their safety. IPC also urged security operatives and other stakeholders that would be involved in the Edo State Governorship election to help ensure the safety of journalists. IPC’s Executive Director, Mr. Lanre Arogundade said the call was necessary because of the consistent trend of journalists being victims of attacks during election period and the conflicts and tension by political actors and other players in the electoral process in the state.  “It is very important for journalists covering the Edo State election to be safety conscious in the discharge of their duties, and to avoid situations that will put them in danger.  Journalists are expected to take into consideration some safety measures while on the field he said, adding that they should internalize the following tips: •  Be non-partisan •   Don’t walk or move alone •   Be INEC accredited and have your organizational identity card • Be brave and smart…i.e. cover violent situations from a reasonable distance •   Handle classified information appropriately He also admonished other stakeholders, especially the security agencies to undertake their tasks in a very professional manner. He urged The Inspector General of Police to advice officers and men on the field, to protect accredited journalists, because the media is a critical part of the electoral process and journalists should be accorded due rights and privileges to enable them carry out their social obligations as partners in enshrining the credibility of the electoral process. “Other stakeholders, including elections observers should also proactively provide journalists covering the elections with information to ensure that all work together for the success of the elections”, Mr. Arogundade added. As part of initiatives to keep tab on the safety of journalists, IPC said that there are safety alert officers who journalists under threat/attack can report to via calls or messages. The concerned officers: Melody Akinjiyan (Press Freedom Officer, IPC) – 08132776441 Olutoyin Ayoade (Communication Officer, IPC) – 08114503887 Mr. Arogundade also enjoined journalists to report any threats to the Edo State Chapter of the Nigeria Union of Journalists. SGD: Melody Akinjiyan Press Freedom Officer, IPC melodyakinjiyan@ipcng.org

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IPC Hosts Media Dialogue & Stakeholders’ Interface on Credible Edo Governorship Election

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IPC Hosts Media Dialogue & Stakeholders’ Interface on Credible Edo Governorship Election For immediate releaseLagos, Nigeria – July 3, 2024 The International Press Centre (IPC), based in Lagos, Nigeria, is convening a Media Dialogue and Stakeholders’ Interface to address mechanisms for guaranteeing credible conduct of Edo State Governorship Election in September this year. The dialogue and interface are part of ongoing efforts to ensure that the media is Fair, Accurate, Ethical, and Inclusive in its coverage of elections while other stakeholders also perform their role creditably. This initiative, slated for July 4 and 5, 2024, in Benin, Edo State, aligns with the goal of Component 4: Support to Media of the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EUSDGNII) project funded by the European Union. The principal aim is to ensure that all relevant stakeholders fulfill their responsibilities diligently, so that the Edo governorship election can be devoid of violence, disinformation and misinformation with the people being able to freely make informed choices. The first day’s sessions will, among others, focus on identifying priority issues for Edo citizens in the elections, early warning indicators of possible violence, key points for civic/voter education and how the media can report fairly, inclusively and accurately. The discussions will also be framed within the EUOM recommendations aimed at enhancing media performance during elections, guaranteeing the integrity of information, and aligning with regulatory frameworks such as the Electoral Act, Nigeria Broadcasting Code, and Nigerian Media Code of Election Coverage. On the second day, meetings will be held with key institutional stakeholders including the INEC Resident Commissioner for Edo State, the Edo State Police Command, the Civil Defence Corps, etc. The meetings will emphasise shared responsibilities and the cultivation of cooperative partnerships to protect journalists, promote peaceful elections, and enhance public understanding of voting and counting procedures. Mr. Lanre Arogundade, the Executive Director of IPC, in a statement said: “We expect that this intervention will promote meaningful dialogues and strengthen commitment towards hitch-free Edo Governorship election. The event is expected to attract about 50 stakeholders among who shall be male and female political reporters and other journalists from the Print, Broadcast and Online media who will be on duty during the governorship election. For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Olutoyin AyoadeCommunications OfficerComponent 4 (Support to Media)EUSDGN II Projecttayoade@ipcng.org

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Rebuilding Trust in the Electoral Process: IPC Hosts Multi-Stakeholders Dialogue

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PRESS RELEASE   Rebuilding Trust in the Electoral Process: IPC Hosts Multi-Stakeholders Dialogue FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Lagos, Nigeria – March 22, 2024. The International Press Centre (IPC), based in Lagos, Nigeria, lead implementing partner of Component 4 (Support to Media) under the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Phase 2 (EUSDGN II) project, announces its upcoming major forum. Scheduled for Monday, March 25, 2024, this event will convene about 100 electoral stakeholders to address the critical theme of “Rebuilding Trust in the Electoral Processes, Institutions and Elections.” Following the success of the inaugural session held in Abuja, this subsequent edition of the media and civil society-driven forum aims to further stimulate meaningful discussions on how to reinforce commitments and approaches to multi-stakeholder collaboration for enhancing confidence in electoral processes. The initiative is also being embarked upon ahead of the off-cycle governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States later this year and preparatory activities towards the 2027 general elections. The forum seeks to gather submissions and recommendations on how diverse stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the Media, Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), Law Enforcement Agencies, Political Party Leaders, Youth, Women, and the Public, can effectively fulfill their roles and collaborate to enhance the integrity of the electoral process in Nigeria. Prof. Isaac Albert of the University of Ibadan will present the lead paper at the event, which will be chaired by Prof. Okey Ibeanu, a former INEC National Commissioner. The event will receive special remarks from the INEC Chairman, Prof. Mahmood Yakubu and EU Ambassador Samuela Isopi, among others. The event shall also be moderated by renowned broadcaster, Mr. Ambrose Somide of Raypower FM. Mr. Lanre Arogundade, the Executive Director of IPC, in a statement emphasised the importance of transparent elections in bolstering citizens’ trust in the electoral system, particularly in developing democracies like Nigeria. He highlighted the correlation between encountering obstacles during elections and reduced confidence in elected officials, often leading to participation in activities opposing the ruling regime. In anticipation of the forthcoming collaboration with key election stakeholders, especially the media, Mr. Arogundade reiterated the commitment to engaging in proposals and contributions aimed at enhancing public trust in Nigeria’s electoral system. This collaboration seeks to foster constructive discussions, address challenges, and work towards improving the overall integrity and transparency of elections in Nigeria. Participation in the dialogue is also expected from various sectors, including the leadership of INEC, Political Parties represented by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), key institutions such as the National Orientation Agency and Security Agencies, as well as representatives from traditional and religious bodies, CSOs, the European Union (EU) Delegation, EUSDGN Partners, Labour Unions, and Community Leaders. This initiative is supported by the European Union. For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Olutoyin Ayoade Communications Officer, IPC tayoade@ipcng.org    About IPC: The International Press Centre (IPC) is a non-governmental organization committed to promoting media freedom, democracy, and transparency in Nigeria. About EUSDGN II: The European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria Phase 2 (EUSDGN II) project aims to strengthen democratic governance, accountability, and electoral processes in Nigeria through various interventions and partnerships.

Component 4 (Support to Media), EU-SDGN, Information Integrity, Media News, Media Training, News, Nigeria Elections, Opportunities for Journalists, Resources

FOSTERING JOURNALISTIC INTEGRITY FOR STRENGTHENED DEMOCRACY

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IPC Ups the Stakes of Fact-Checking, FOIA Use and Inclusivityin Election Coverage By Olutoyin Ayoade For a democracy to flourish, an informed citizenry attuned to current affairs is paramount. This raises a fundamental question about the effectiveness of the media in providing citizens with the necessary information, analysis, and contextual reports essential for informed decision-making on political candidates and policies. How can we enhance the quality of media engagement to improve the integrity of information available to the public? Additionally, considering resource constraints, what steps can journalists take to elevate and uphold reporting standards and enhance the quality of their news delivery to audiences? In responding to these concerns, the International Press Centre (IPC) recognises the significant impact of the media on societal dynamics and positive change. IPC employs a variety of strategies, such as media training, resource dissemination, and advocacy initiatives, to empower journalists nationwide. By providing support, advocacy, and training, IPC aims to elevate journalistic standards, preserve press freedom, and enable journalists to effectively inform the public. This assistance contributes to nurturing a vibrant media landscape in Nigeria and Africa, aiding in the advancement of democratic governance and sustainable development objectives through the promotion of ethical journalism. In further pursuit of these objectives, IPC, as lead partner of Component 4: Support to Media of the European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria (EU-SDGNII) project funded by the European Union recently organised a three-part workshop spanning a month to elevate journalists’ skills across the country. The workshops which took place in Akure, Ondo State, Port-Harcourt, Rivers State and Kaduna, Kaduna State brought together about 120 journalists from the six geo-political zones of the country with the training curriculum designed to equip them with vital tools and skills to tackle the challenges of the digital age in relation to information disorder while underscoring the importance of responsibility and ethical conduct. The training also aimed to address some of the critical media observations highlighted in the European Union Electoral Observation Mission (EU-EOM) final report on the 2023 Nigeria general elections, including the following:  The online sphere experienced a surge in false information, including sensationalized content spread across various platforms and media channels. Political entities and individuals contributed to this trend, targeting actors like INEC and mainstream media. False information circulated during presidential and state elections, especially around polling days.  Throughout the gubernatorial elections, a proliferation of misinformation was observed, ranging from false claims of candidate withdrawals to fabricated endorsements. The online sphere witnessed the dissemination of hate speech aimed at specific political factions in Nigeria.  The electoral discourse in Lagos was marked by divisive dialogues revolving around the ethnic origins of candidates. Female candidates encountered gender-based online harassment. Notably, the races in Rivers and Adamawa garnered significant user engagement, particularly highlighting prominent female contenders. However, the online narrative in Adamawa was tainted by the prevalence of misinformation.  The Nigerian Fact-checkers Coalition (NFC) comprising 12 organizations fact-checked 150 election-related cases from December 2022 to March 2023, raising awareness about disinformation risks. Collaboration among organizations optimized capacities, with peak fact-checking before the February 25th election and extending to state levels. The journalists who participated in the workshops demonstrated a notable improvement in their skills and understanding of how to combat disinformation, misinformation and mal information thus demonstrating commitment to curbing information disorder. The workshops focused on critical areas including utilising fact-checking and Freedom of Information tools. Attendees were equipped with essential competencies to navigate the complexities of the digital age effectively. Moreover, participants gained knowledge on enhancing post-election coverage of gender-related issues and tactics to address misinformation and gender biases. Facilitators Dr. Titi Osuagwu of the University of Port Harcourt; Dr. Fatimah Shaibu of The Polytechnic, Kaduna: Mr. Martins Oloja, former Managing Director/Editor-in-Chief, The Guardian Newspaper, Mr. Edetaen Ojo, Executive Director, Media Rights Agenda and Mr. Lanre Arogundade, Executive Director, International Press Centre spearheaded the discussions with presentations on the selected topics. FOIA and Investigations in Post-Election Reporting on Democratic Governance. During the training session, Mr. Ojo and Mr. Oloja extensively delved into the topic of “Post-election Reporting: Leveraging the FOI Act and Investigative Techniques for Reporting on Democratic Governance and Electoral Accountability.” Recognizing the imperative for media practitioners to persist in advocating for a governance system characterized by accountability and responsibility, the expert sessions highlighted the pivotal role of the media in advocating for transparency to bolster good governance. Emphasizing that adherence to regulations nurtures trust and credibility, the facilitators underscored the importance of this principle. The session also emphasised the vanguard role the media can play in utilising FOI Act to bolster accountability by regulatory bodies across sectors. They underscored the importance of assessing adherence to statutory regulations and the significance of journalists incorporating data into their reporting to enrich the depth, accuracy, and impact of their narratives. Moreover, the sessions also buttressed the fact that the practice not only elevates the quality of journalism but also fosters transparency by holding governmental entities accountable for their assertions, declarations, and commitments. In addition, that data-driven reporting offers empirical evidence, enhances public comprehension, facilitates informed decision-making, and validates assertions through the meticulous cross-referencing of data from credible sources to uphold accuracy. The discussion also encompassed various topics related to the Freedom of Information Act (FOI), such as the process of submitting FOI requests, permissible information, judicial review procedures, offenses outlined in the FOI Act, the responsibilities of the Attorney-General of the Federation, and safeguards for whistleblowers. The sessions emphasised the need for thorough examination of the foundational tenets of the FOI Act and the Access to Information (ATI) framework. This analysis concentrated on crucial aspects, such as record-keeping procedures, the designation of information officers within public institutions, educating officials on the public’s right to access information, handling FOI applications, adhering to response deadlines, submitting annual reports, and the obligatory proactive disclosure of specific information by public entities. Additionally, it was highlighted that certain exemptions exist for information that could potentially compromise international relations or national defence. A

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International Women’s Day: Nigeria must urgently accelerate the inclusion of women at decision making levels.

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Press Release   International Women’s Day: Nigeria must urgently accelerate the inclusion of women at decision making levels. For Immediate Release: Friday, March 8, 2024 The International Press Centre (IPC) in Lagos, Nigeria aligns with the global community in advocating for increased female political representation at both national and subnational levels within Nigeria. Reflecting on the United Nations theme for this year, “Invest in women—accelerate progress,” IPC emphasizes the importance of empowering and investing in women by promoting their active participation in political leadership and decision-making roles. This is seen as a crucial strategy to swiftly address the democratic challenges facing the nation. IPC draws attention to the inadequate representation of women in political positions in Nigeria, despite constitutional provisions and international agreements advocating for their inclusion. Persistent systemic and societal barriers hinder women’s engagement in politics. The concerning trend persisted during the 2023 elections in the country, resulting in adverse implications for women’s representation and impact within the government. Notably, the proportion of women in Nigeria’s National Assembly decreased by 19% compared to the previous assembly. Presently, women hold only 3% of Senate seats and 4% of seats in the House of Representatives. In a statement, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, the Executive Director of the IPC, emphasized the importance of acknowledging the significant perspectives and contributions that women offer to governance in Nigerian society. He noted that empowering women in politics not only promotes fairness and equality but also enhances the overall effectiveness and legitimacy of governmental institutions. “Through concerted efforts to address these disparities, by dismantling barriers and fostering inclusivity in political arenas, Nigeria can pave the way for a more inclusive and representative democracy that truly reflects the voices and needs of all its citizens”, he stressed. He also noted that IPC’s initiatives in the realm of democracy have significantly contributed to enhancing the media’s pivotal role as a primary influencer in elections. These efforts have focused on enhancing the capabilities of both the media and female candidates nationwide, empowering them to effectively leverage the media’s influence in promoting democracy. Notably, these endeavours have yielded commendable results, with some beneficiaries, particularly female lawmakers, successfully securing seats in the States House of Assembly during the 2023 Elections. To mitigate the high attrition rates of women in elections, Mr. Arogundade emphasized the importance of key stakeholders advocating for gender-equitable policies, initiating voter education campaigns on gender equality, and addressing feminized poverty through economic equality initiatives. SGD: Olutoyin Ayoade Communications Officer, IPC tayoade@ipcng.org

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Overview of IPC’s 2023 Activities

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Project Title: European Union Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria-Phase 2 (EUSDGN II) project. In 2022, the International Press Centre in Lagos, Nigeria, launched a project funded by the European Union to enhance media involvement in promoting democratic governance through fair, accurate, ethical, and inclusive coverage of electoral processes in Nigeria. The project aims to support democracy by engaging the media in professional reporting on electoral procedures across various platforms. The activities implemented under the EUSDGN II project are as follows: In preparation for the February 2023 general elections, IPC conducted a one-day virtual workshop aimed at enhancing the skills of 40 bloggers and online journalists from the southern region on conflict-sensitive reporting. This workshop took place on January 12, 2023. Furthermore, an additional 40 bloggers from the northern region were also trained, resulting in a total of 80 participants being equipped before the 2023 general elections. The primary objective of the virtual workshop was to address the dissemination of hate speech and counteract the negative impacts of unethical and insensitive reporting during the 2023 Nigeria electoral processes. The focus was on empowering media professionals with ethical and conflict-sensitive reporting skills to foster responsible journalism. Among the attendees were online journalists and bloggers, including members of the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), actively engaged in online coverage of the 2023 elections. IPC and YIAGA Africa, under the EU-funded EUSDGN II project, organized a forum to address INEC’s readiness for the 2023 elections. Stakeholders discussed election themes like security, inclusivity, and media responsibilities to enhance public trust and credibility. Key attendees included media and CSO representatives, with a focus on proactive measures to ensure successful elections. During the roundtable discussions, stakeholders delivered presentations on various election-related themes, including election security, citizen engagement, inclusivity, media responsibilities, and insights from INEC representatives. The forum concluded with a collective acknowledgment of crucial areas that could impact the elections’ credibility, prompting commitments from INEC and other stakeholders to address these concerns proactively before the presidential and gubernatorial elections. IPC conducted two roundtable sessions in Abuja and Port-Harcourt with media stakeholders to review the media monitoring report on the 2023 electoral process. Discussions focused on coverage trends of the election by newspapers and INEC platforms, addressing professionalism and improving media coverage. The initiative, spanning eighteen months, also analyzed IPC’s media coverage of the electoral and democratic processes. After the activities, the goals achieved were: The roundtable discussion focused on various topics related to enhancing democratic governance by promoting transparency, accountability, and participatory decision-making to bolster comprehensive government practices. During the session, in alignment with IPC’s mission to reinforce the media’s role in democratic governance, IPC presented an analysis of the campaign promises made by the winner of the 2023 presidential elections. The comprehensive documentation of the presidential campaign commitments, which emphasized development across multiple sectors, provided both the media and citizens with an opportunity to assess political agendas and educate the public on the significance of upholding accountability in democratic governance. Furthermore, the roundtable facilitated a detailed conversation on fostering democratic accountability by aligning with citizen expectations and enhancing the media’s role as the fourth estate of the realm. IPC meticulously recorded and presented thirty (30) pivotal campaign pledges made by President Bola Tinubu, independently monitored by IPC’s media monitoring unit between October 2022 and February 2023. This effort was part of IPC’s involvement in the 2023 electoral processes, including tracking and analyzing media coverage trends across various platforms such as print and online media outlets. Moreover, the media roundtable acknowledged IPC’s significant achievement in developing the Nigerian Media Code of Election Coverage for IOS and the Media Election App. These resources provide essential guidelines for election stakeholders, creating an environment conducive to enabling the media to fulfill its professional duties effectively during electoral procedures. The development of the IOS/Web App aimed to facilitate easy access for journalists, media professionals, researchers, and academia to download the guidelines for enhanced accessibility and application. The purpose of this event was to conduct a thorough analysis of the intricate relationships between the public, the media, and the electoral procedures. The primary objective was to formulate a comprehensive agenda that emphasizes enhancing the media’s and citizens’ roles in fostering a credible electoral system. The workshop aimed to instil essential media professionalism and inclusivity in the coverage and reporting of the ongoing electoral process in the state. This initiative is intended to assist the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in facilitating transparent, peaceful, and legitimate gubernatorial elections in Kogi in November. Furthermore, the workshop fostered collaborative brainstorming sessions and idea exchanges among media stakeholders to explore effective strategies to uphold the media’s crucial role in promoting electoral processes and democratic principles universally recognized. Moreover, the workshop delved into an in-depth analysis of these roles and deliberated on ways to address the obstacles that often hinder their effective execution. Lastly, participants were introduced to the IPC’s Media and Elections app, an innovative tool designed to enhance access to valuable resources for election reporting. Project Title: IVERIFY Project The primary goal of the iVerify project, facilitated by the International Press Centre in collaboration with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) and the government of Spain, is to enhance efforts in combating the concerning issue of information disorder. This includes tackling the surge of disinformation, misinformation, malinformation, and hate speech, particularly during electoral and democratic proceedings. Activities IPC organized fact-checking workshops for 80 journalists from various media outlets in the three states ahead of the November 11, 2023, off-cycle governorship elections. The Journalists were trained to detect disinformation, use fact-checking tools, and provide factual election coverage without biases to ensure accurate information reaches the public. Project Title:  NIGERIAN JOURNALISTS’ SAFETY INITIATIVE Activities The training was conducted by the NIGERIAN JOURNALISTS’ SAFETY INITIATIVE, a pivotal component of a three-year project named ‘Safety Awareness and Impactful Reporting of Communities’, overseen by IPC and supported by the Open Society Foundation (OSF). The primary objective of this capacity-building initiative was two-fold: firstly, to equip local journalists

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IDEI 2023: IPC demands urgent investigations into unresolved killings and attacks on Journalists; calls for commitment to UNESCO’s 3 Ps on safety of journalists especially during off-cycle governorship elections on Nov 11

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Press Release IDEI 2023: IPC demands urgent investigations into unresolved killings and attacks on Journalists; calls for commitment to UNESCO’s 3 Ps on safety of journalists especially during off-cycle governorship elections on Nov 11 For immediate release: Thursday, November 2, 2023 To commemorate this year’s International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (IDEI), the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria is calling for urgent but thorough investigations into the documented cases of crimes against journalists so that perpetrators can be held accountable. The International Day to End Impunity for Crimes against Journalists (IDEI) is observed yearly on November 2nd to pay tribute to journalists killed in the line of duty, and to raise awareness of the dangers of impunity for crimes committed against journalists. Based on UNESCO’s theme for this year’s commemoration – “Violence against journalists, the integrity of elections, and the role of public leadership” – IPC calls on Nigeria to take the lead in guaranteeing the safety of journalists at elections and while covering other assignments so that the country would not continue to rank poorly on global press freedom indicators. IPC affirms that the threats to journalism and press freedom are alarming on the grounds of the numerous monitored and documented incidents of attacks against journalists which has worsened in the past decade and largely remains judicially unresolved. Among the unsolved killings of journalists in the line of duty in Nigeria are those of Alex Ogbu (Regent Africa Times), Ikechukwu Onubogu, (Anambra Broadcasting Service (ABS), Maxwell Nashan (Federal Radio Corporation of Nigeria), Onifade Emmanuel Pelumi (Gboah TV) and Precious Owolabi (Channels TV). In addition, the IPC Centre for Safety and Protection of Journalists (ICSPJ) this year alone has recorded twenty-nine (29) cases of attacks involving thirty-nine (39) journalists across the country, including attacks on at least 12 journalists covering the February 2023 general elections – the journalists and other media professionals were subjected to harassment and intimidation. The nature of attacks include – Imposition of fine, physical assault, harassment, deleting of pictures, unlawful arrest, detention, intimidation, denial of access to polling unit to cover electoral process, molestation, threat to life, abduction, damage to vehicle, sporadic gunshot and explosion, while Persons/groups allegedly responsible were – NBC, political thugs, military officers, police officers, angry youths, alleged gunmen, security operatives, kidnappers and duty bearers. The Executive Director, IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade in a statement said: “Frequent attacks on journalists discourages the media from performing its core functions at elections, especially providing credible information to enable the people to make informed choices. He added: “The fight to end the entrenched culture of impunity for crimes against the media, requires a multi-stakeholder approach, this is why IPC along with other media support and media professional groups as well as other stakeholders including the civil society, have for some time spearheaded the campaign for the establishment of a national mechanism for the safety and protection of journalists in Nigeria”. Mr. Arogundade called on the Tinubu administration to take urgent measures to comply with regional and international frameworks on safety journalists, which UNESCO says should revolve around the three Ps of: Prevention, Protection and Prosecution. He enjoined the security and the law enforcement authorities to accord high priority to the safety of the Journalists who would be on duty during the off-cycle governorship elections in Imo, Bayelsa and Kogi States on November 11. Mr. Arogundade however enjoined the journalists to take responsibility for their own safety by adhering to election reporting safety advisory for journalists by IPC and the Nigeria Media Code of Election Coverage. SGD: Olutoyin Ayoade Communications Officer, IPC tayoade@ipcng.org

Information Integrity, News, Nigeria Elections, Press Release

Press Release: Fact-checking & electoral information integrity – IPC embarks on training of journalists in Kogi, Bayelsa & Imo States

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Press ReleaseFact-checking & electoral information integrity – IPC embarks on training of journalists in Kogi, Bayelsa & Imo States For immediate release: Monday October 30, 2023About 80 journalists from the print, electronic and online media in Kogi, Bayelsa and Imo states have started receiving training on fact-checking to aid the credibility of electoral information as the States set to hold off-cycle governorship election on November 11, 2023. The fact-checking workshops are kick-starting the iVerify project of the International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria supported by the United Nations Development Programmes (UNDP). 27 male and female journalists from Kogi state participated in the first leg of the training in Abuja, FCT, on October 27 and 28, while another 27 from Bayelsa State are currently attending the workshop in Port Harcourt, Rivers State. 27 journalists from Imo State will be trained later in the week. The focus of the presentations at the workshops are: The Art of questioning in Journalism & Being Detectives of Misinformation by Mr. Taiwo Obe, founder Journalism Clinic; Fact-checking of information to promote electoral integrity, by Mr. David Ajikobi, Nigerian Editor of Africa Check; Combating Electoral Information Disorder or Fake News – the INEC Experience by Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman and The Dangers of Information Disorder or Fake News to Peace Building & Conflict Resolution by Dr. Emmanuel Mamman, Director of Conflict Prevention, Management and Resolution at the Institute for Peace and Conflict Resolution. Addressing the Kogi and Bayelsa participants, Mr. Matthew Alao, Team Lead, Governance, Peace & Security of UNDP Nigeria said electoral disinformation and fake news in general are major threats to the ability of citizens to have the right information during electoral processes and elections, therefore also constituting threats to democracy. IPC’s Programme Manager, Mrs. Stella Nwofia also said the iVerify project is enabling IPC to continue with its mission of promoting good journalism through best practises in ensuring factual accuracy of news. According to her, the objective of the training is to equip the journalists with the requisite skills and knowledge to enhance the integrity of information on the electoral processes in the respective states, especially the campaigns, the conduct of the Independent National Electoral Commission, and post-election democratic accountability and governance issues. The workshops are also building the skill of the journalists on how to use fact-checking tools for the purpose of combating the menace of false information during the electioneering period while also introducing them to the workings of the iVerify system and their likely role. Media professional organisations collaborating with IPC on the iVerify project and who nominated some of the participants include the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ), the Nigerian Guild of Editors (NGE), the Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP), and the Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ). Highlights of the workshops can be followed on IPC’s social media channels with the HASHTAG #VerifyBeforeYouShare. E-SignedOlutoyin AyoadeCommunications Officer, IPCtayoade@ipcng.org

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JOB VACANCY: Fact Checkers

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JOB TITLE: Fact CheckersLOCATION: Lagos, NigeriaSTART DATE: October 2023APPLICATION DEADLINE: September 20, 2023 The International Press Centre (IPC), Lagos-Nigeria calls for applications from fact-checkers to undertake a fact-checking and information integrity project scheduled to begin in October 2023. The project aims to strengthen national capacities to prevent and mitigate threats to the integrity of information through a verification mechanism that identifies false information, prevents and mitigate its spread. The fack-checking activity and other related activity component, is supported by the UNDP. Under the project, a 3-member fact-checking team shall be tasked with the primary responsibility of monitoring, researching, generating fact checked reports and reporting cases of misinformation/ disinformation concentrating on a range of electoral and democratic governance issues, including the upcoming gubernatorial elections. Applicants who have previous work experience are encouraged to apply, however, training would be provided prior to the role commencement. RESPONSIBILITIESThe ideal candidates would be expected to work under the supervision of the project leadership. The candidates will also be expected to work with other members of the project team and report to the editorial supervisor carrying out the following roles:• Monitor the news and generate fact-checked reports to keep the fact checking website active and relevant• Research and evaluate election-related sources, cross-referencing information to ensure the accuracy of the details.• Verify the accuracy of electoral-related contents and information across a variety of written materials such as news articles, social media and other publications• Source reliable and accurate data on the elections and processes from a variety of sources• Analyse trends and patterns in election-related data• Evaluate the reliability of election-related facts and figures• Identify trends, inconsistencies and discrepancies in election-related data• Provide recommendations for improvement• Ensure fact checked content is accurate and up-to-date SKILLS• Proficiency in English language• Strong research, analytical and IT skills• Strong report writing skills• Proficiency in Microsoft Office• Ability to work with a team and independently• High level of accuracy• Ability to verify information quickly• Ability to interpret and analyse data• Strong attention to detail• Strong writing and communication skills• Ability to work to tight deadlines QUALIFICATIONS:Candidates should possess a minimum of HND/bachelor’s degree. HOW TO APPLYCandidates who meet the job requirements should send their CV and Cover Letter demonstrating how they meet the job specifications to info@ipcng.org.Deadline for application submissions is Wednesday, September 20, 2023. Sequel to the review of applications received shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

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