The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it is intensifying voter education and stakeholder engagement in Ogun State to address electoral distrust and boost public confidence ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Ogun State Resident Electoral Commissioner, Feyijimi Saseyi Ibiyemi, disclosed this during an interview on Thursday in Abeoluta.
Ibiyemi identified misinformation, fake news and communication gaps as major factors capable of undermining confidence in the electoral process.
She said INEC was strengthening its voter education structures while collaborating with the media and other stakeholders to provide citizens with accurate information.
“We are training our voter education department to go out and talk to people. We are also engaging the media and the people to have verified information. Verify something before you post it,” she said.
The REC urged citizens seeking clarification on electoral procedures or INEC information to visit the Commission’s offices at the state and local government levels.
She added that INEC was using radio, television, market and road shows to reach voters across the state.
Ibiyemi said the Commission had expanded its stakeholder engagement to include traditional rulers, market women, persons living with disabilities, religious organisations, tertiary institutions and other groups.
She said traditional rulers had been encouraged to promote peaceful participation and discourage youths from being recruited for electoral violence, vote-buying and other electoral offences.
“We have received cooperation from our traditional rulers. Market women, people living with disabilities, religious bodies and other critical stakeholders have not been left out,” she said.
The REC also disclosed that the Commission had taken voter mobilisation campaigns to tertiary institutions and markets as part of efforts to engage young voters.
She said INEC would continue using different platforms to educate citizens and encourage participation ahead of the 2027 elections.
The interview also featured a caller who questioned whether INEC could deliver a credible election capable of restoring public confidence.
Responding, Ibiyemi said the Commission was taking steps within its mandate to prepare for the elections, urging Nigerians to rely on verified information and participate in the electoral process