Campaigns: INEC charges political parties compliance fees

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has urged political parties to comply with the law in their campaigns for the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States.

This was contained in a statement issued yesterday by Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Commission, Abuja.

Olumekun said the advice became necessary after the release of the final list of candidates for the governorship election and the commencement of the campaign.

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

“These include public buildings such as stadiums, open spaces in public places, complete refusal or restriction of access to state media (in particular radio and television stations);

“Imposing excessive fees and charges for outdoor and media advertising, and even removing or vandalizing billboards and posters.

“These actions often result in violent clashes among party supporters and disruption of public peace.

‘For the avoidance of doubt, the Commission would like to reiterate that Art. 95 section Section 2 of the 2022 electoral law prohibits the use of the state apparatus “to the advantage or disadvantage of any political party or candidate in any election,” Olumekun said.

He also advised the media to comply with the law during the campaign.

According to him, in accordance with Art. 95 section 3, 4 and 5, public media houses are obliged to ensure equal coverage and visibility for all parties and candidates.

‘Article 95(1) 6 provides for sanctions against the heads of public media organizations, their chief officials and other officials for violations,” he said.

He said that a publication containing the commission’s guidelines on the conduct of rallies, processions and political campaigns was posted on the Commission’s website (www.inecnigeria.org).

According to him, the same document was also uploaded on INEC’s social media platforms.

“In this regard, the attention of all interested parties is drawn to the provisions of the law and the guidelines for strict compliance with them,” he said.