By Chigozie Chukwuleta
A two-day forum on “Enhanced Reportage, Inclusivity, and Accountability of Stakeholders towards Anambra Poll” took place in Awka, Anambra State.
The event, organized by the International Press Centre (IPC) in collaboration with the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), is supported by the European Union under Component 4: Support to Democratic Governance in Nigeria-Phase 2 (EU-SDGN II).
The forum which ended on Thursday had in attendance journalists and program presenters with the mandate to deepen civic and voter participation, promote ethical journalism, and enhance electoral integrity in the November 8, 2025, Anambra State governorship election.
The Executive Director of IPC, Mr. Lanre Arogundade, noted that the event would enhance accountability and participatory democracy. “Election is the bedrock of a democratic society, and the need to retrain journalists on ethical and professional reportage of election would enhance accountability and participatory democracy,” he said.
Also speaking, the Executive Director of CEMESO, Dr. Akin Akingbulu, stated that the forum would guide journalists in renewing conversations between leaders and citizens, upholding media freedom, and deepening electoral integrity.
The forum featured technical session where participants were divided into two groups of Broadcast and Print/Blog and were drilled on codes of election coverage and importance of inclusivity in news reporting .
Participants were advised to abide by the professional and social responsibilities guiding their practice and adhere to journalistic ethics and report according to the best interest of citizens.
Representatives from the office of the Police Commissioner and the Commandant of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps (NSCDC) were present, reaffirming their readiness to ensure a secure environment for the governorship election.
Also Mr Ajegwu Edozie of the National Orientation Agency and the CEO/Founder of TAFAfrica, Mr Jake Epelle gave goodwill messages where they called for reorientation towards positive values.
As part of the workshop, Mr Lanre Arogundade presented a resource material on the rules of electoral reportage to the Police and NSCDC representatives to ensure seamless collaboration with journalists as they carry out their duties during elections.
