The Electoral Commission (EC) has revised its media accreditation protocol to allow journalists assigned to polling stations to use the same photo accreditation for access to constituency and regional collation centres.
The EC had earlier faced criticism from media professionals and the public for limiting the number of media houses permitted at constituency and regional collation centres to 8 and 12, respectively.
Critics argued that such restrictions could hinder comprehensive coverage of election proceedings while undermining transparency.
The EC, however, defended its initial decision, citing the need for orderliness at collation centres.
The change, effective Saturday, December 7, 2024, was announced in a statement issued by the EC on December 2, following consultations with key media personalities. The move aims to promote transparency and accountability in the electoral process by ensuring broader media access to critical election operations.
Benjamin Bano-Bioh, Director for Electoral Services, emphasised the commission’s commitment to enhancing the role of the media in the democratic process.
“The revised media accreditation aims to provide media personnel with greater flexibility and access to key election centres. This commitment reflects the EC’s dedication to ensuring the media can effectively cover the electoral process,” he said.
According to the EC, further details regarding media access to the National Collation Centre will be announced in due course.
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