By Nkechi Eze
A compelling new publication that offers an unfiltered look into the work, risks, and impact of Nigeria’s frontline election reporters is set for public unveiling on Friday, 5 December 2025, in Abuja. The book, The INEC Press Corps: Chronicles of Nigeria’s Election Journalists, written by media consultant and Chairman of the INEC Press Corps, Segun Ojumu, presents an insider view of the electoral space through the eyes of those who document it.
The launch will be held at The Electoral Institute, the research and training arm of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The event comes at a strategically important moment, immediately after the Anambra State Governorship election and on the eve of the 2026 electoral cycle, which begins with the FCT Area Council elections on February 21, 2026, followed by consequential governorship polls in Ekiti and Osun States.
Unlike previous publications that focus primarily on politicians, institutions, or electoral reforms, Ojumu’s work shines the spotlight on correspondents who serve as the public’s watchdog during elections. The book captures their behind-the-scenes experiences, the hazards they confront, and the role they play in strengthening the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
Explaining the motivation behind the project, Ojumu said the book shifts attention to a group often overlooked in the national electoral narrative. “For too long, the spotlight has been only on the umpire and the politicians. This book finally tells the story of the frontline correspondents, those who ensure electoral outcomes are transparent and verifiable, often at great personal risk,” he said.
He noted that the narrative is anchored on the principles of transparency and public confidence, underscoring the critical role of rigorous media oversight in deterring manipulation and safeguarding the credibility of election outcomes. “The core of our democracy is trust. Our work as journalists is fundamental to legitimizing election results. Unbiased media presence is the public’s primary tool for filtering misinformation and strengthening faith in the ballot box,” Ojumu added.
The unveiling is expected to draw a distinguished gathering of electoral stakeholders, civil society leaders, and media professionals. Among the dignitaries billed to attend are the Secretary to INEC, Dr. Mrs. Rose Anthony Orianran; several National Commissioners; and the FCT Resident Electoral Commissioner, Aminu Idris.
Also expected are prominent figures from political and civil society organisations, including Yusuf Dantalle, Chairman of the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC); Blessing Akinlosotu, Executive Secretary of the National Civil Society Council of Nigeria (NCSCN); Jake Epelle, Founder of TAF Africa; and Dickson Akoh, National Commandant of the Peace Corps of Nigeria. The Special Adviser on Media to the Kogi State Governor, Isah Ismaila, is also listed among the participants.
The book is projected to become an important reference material for scholars, policymakers, media practitioners, and election observers seeking to better understand the underexplored field of election reportage in West Africa. It provides both historical context and contemporary insights into how journalists contribute to electoral accountability and democratic stability.
