INEC WARNS BUHARI AND ATIKU TO DESIST FROM CAMPAIGNING

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Joseph Omoniyi

Chairman of Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Mahmood Yakubu has warned candidates and political parties not to start campaigns yet.

He made this known on Monday in his speech at the workshop for election professionals from the Commonwealth Africa Region organised by the Commonwealth in partnership with the commission.

“Let me also remind political patties and candidates that the end of primaries does not mean the immediate commencement of campaigns. Section 99(1) prohibits campaigns by political parties earlier than 90 days before polling day,” he said.

According the provisions of the Electoral Act and the Timetable and Schedule of Activities issued by the commission, campaign for Presidential and National Assembly elections should commence on November 18 while Governorship and State Assembly elections should start on December 1.

Mr Yakubu called for strict adherence to this timetable by political parties and candidates.

The electoral chief’s warning follows the conclusion of presidential and governorship primaries by parties and adoption of candidates.