GOCOP urges INEC to improve transparency ahead of 2027 elections

The Guild of Corporate Online Publishers (GOCOP) has called on Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to enhance transparency and public trust ahead of the 2027 general elections. During its 10th Annual Conference in Lagos, the guild highlighted that public confidence in electoral credibility remains low, citing a survey where only 38 per cent of Nigerians expressed belief in the process.

GOCOP recommended that INEC provide timely information regarding election logistics, technology testing, and result management to allow for independent verification. The guild also proposed the creation of a digital media fact-verification channel to help editors authenticate reports concerning polling unit incidents and technical issues. To improve inclusivity, they suggested translating the Electoral Act and voter education materials into major Nigerian languages.

Additionally, the guild is seeking a judicial interpretation of the Electoral Act and the Nigerian constitution. This request aims to clarify the legal boundaries regarding media reporting on exit polls, election projections, and independent result tallies. GOCOP emphasized that media organizations must maintain the right to report on malpractices and information without being gagged, while warning that threats like deepfakes and synthetic media could undermine the electoral process.