The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plans to collaborate with the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) to prosecute individuals and organisations that violate election campaign laws.
INEC Chairman, Alhaji Mahmood Yakubu, disclosed this during the commission’s second quarterly meeting with political parties on Thursday in Abuja.
Yakubu also said that the commission would work with IPAC and ARCON to take legal action against individuals and organisations that violate the law, particularly in cases of denial of access to public facilities for campaign activities.
As campaign activities commenced in Anambra, I wish to draw attention to the perennial complaint, especially by the opposition parties about the denial of access to public facilities for electioneering activities.
“These include the state media, public buildings for meetings and open spaces for rallies and processions.
“In some cases, prohibitive amounts are charged for outdoor advertising. These actions are a violation of the Electoral Act 2022 which prohibits the use of incumbency to the advantage or disadvantage of any political party or candidate.
“Going forward, the commission will work with the IPAC and intensify our collaboration with ARCON for a possible legal action in the face of prima facie evidence of the violation of the law,’’ he said.
He cautioned against prohibitive charges for outdoor advertising and other acts constituting a violation of the law.
The campaign period for the Anambra governorship election commenced on June 11 and would end on November 6.
INEC expects political parties to adhere to its regulations and guidelines for meetings, rallies, and processions.
In his remarks, IPAC National Chairman Yusuf Dantalle commended INEC’s efforts and urged political parties to adopt issue-based campaigns.
Dantalle suggested that IPAC could consider adopting AI governance in parties’ membership drives, voter education, and mobilization for elections.
