INEC CONFIRMS ADEDAYO OKETOLA AS NEW CHIEF PRESS SECRETARY

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially confirmed the appointment of Adedayo Oketola, a former editor at Punch Newspaper, as its new Chief Press Secretary. The announcement was made in a formal statement issued to journalists on Monday, marking a significant change in the commission’s communication leadership.

Oketola steps into the role previously held by Rotimi Oyekanmi, who served under the immediate past INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu. INEC described the appointment as a strategic move to enhance the commission’s public relations and media engagement. “This decision underscores our commitment to bolstering our communication capabilities, especially during critical electoral periods where clear and accurate information is vital,” the commission stated in its release.

With nearly two decades of distinguished experience in journalism, Oketola is hailed as a seasoned journalist and proven newsroom leader. His career at The PUNCH saw him hold several high-profile editorial positions, including News Editor, Business Editor, and Assistant Editor of News & Politics for Saturday PUNCH. “His extensive background in managing complex news operations and political reporting makes him exceptionally qualified for this sensitive role,” INEC noted.

In his new capacity, Oketola will be responsible for articulating INEC’s policies, decisions, and activities to the public, managing the commission’s image, and serving as the primary liaison between the INEC Chairman and the press. The appointment is widely viewed as an injection of fresh professional vigor into INEC’s communication strategy. “We are confident that Mr. Oketola’s expertise will foster a more effective and harmonious relationship with the media, ultimately strengthening public trust and electoral transparency,” the commission added.