INEC CAUTIONS AGAINST DENYING PARTIES ACCESS TO PUBLIC FACILITIES AHEAD OF EDO/ONDO GUBER POLLS

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Prior to the governorship elections in the states of Edo and Ondo, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) issued a warning against preventing political parties from using public spaces.

It is illegal to deny political parties or candidates access to public spaces during their campaigns, according to a statement released on Friday by Sam Olumekun, the Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee and National Commissioner of INEC.

“Over the years, a recurring problem in Nigeria’s electioneering process has been the use of the power of incumbency to deny opposition parties and candidates access to public facilities for rallies and other campaign activities,” he said.

“These include public buildings such as sports stadiums, open spaces in public places, total denial or restricted access to state-owned media (specifically radio and television stations), the imposition of excessive levies and fees for outdoor and media advertising, and even the removal or vandalisation of billboards and posters. These actions often result in violent clashes among party supporters and a breach of public peace.

“For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission wishes to reiterate that Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits the use of State apparatus to ‘the advantage or disadvantage of any political party or candidate at any election’.”

Additionally, INEC stated that “public media outlets are required by Section 95(3-5) to provide equal coverage and visibility to all parties and candidates.” Heads of public media organizations, their major executives, and other authorities are subject to sanctions under Section 95(6) for violations.

The electoral umpire requested that interested parties go to the commission’s website to view the guidelines on the conduct of campaigns, processions, and political rallies.

“Consequently, the attention of all concerned is drawn to the provisions of the law and the guidelines for strict compliance,” Olumekun said.