The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has lifted the ban on political campaigns ahead of the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council election.If You’re Reading From Phoenix Click On Read Original at the top To Read Full Article
INEC said its decision was in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and item 8 of the election timetable and schedule of activities.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, the electoral umpire announced that campaigns would run from Wednesday, September 24, 2025, until midnight on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
“Political parties participating in the 2026 FCT Area Council election are now at liberty to start their electioneering campaigns in public,” the statement read.
INEC cautioned that all political parties and their candidates must enjoy unimpeded access to public facilities for campaign activities. This includes media platforms, outdoor advertising, public rallies, and meetings.
The Commission warned against using the power of incumbency to give undue advantage or disadvantage to any political party or candidate, citing Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022.
Olumekun also reminded political parties, candidates, and supporters of the provisions of Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act, which outlaw abusive language, physical attacks, or destruction of opponents’ campaign materials during rallies, processions, and meetings.
“It is unlawful to use abusive language, carry out physical attacks on opponents, or destroy their campaign materials,” he stressed.
INEC said it would continue to monitor compliance and urged all stakeholders to commit to peaceful, issue-based campaigns that would deepen democracy and public trust in the process.
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
