Ahead of the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states, the Independent National Electoral Commission has issued a stern reminder to political parties and candidates about the legal requirements for equitable access to public facilities.
INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun issued the reminder in a statement on Friday.
Olumekun noted that the commission has observed a persistent issue in Nigeria’s electioneering process: the misuse of incumbency power to block opposition parties and candidates from utilising public facilities for campaign activities.
This misuse includes restricting access to public buildings such as sports stadiums, limiting the use of state-owned media, imposing excessive fees for advertising, and even the removal or vandalism of campaign materials.
These actions often lead to violent clashes and disrupt public peace.
To address these concerns, Olumekun reiterated that Section 95 subsection two of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits the use of state resources to benefit or disadvantage any political party or candidate.
Olumekun emphasised the importance of adhering to these regulations, adding that INEC has made guidelines for political rallies, processions, and campaigns on its website and social media platforms to ensure clarity and compliance.
The Edo governorship election is scheduled for September 21, 2024; while the Ondo governorship poll is scheduled for November 16, 2024.
www.itvradiong.com/live
www.youtube.com/itvradiong
www.facebook.com/itvradiong
www.twitter.com/itvradiong
www.instagram.com/itvradiong
www.tiktok.com/@itvradiong
