Politics

INEC Issues Warning Against Hate Speech, Weapons

Published

6 months ago

Jun 21, 2024.

Eko Hot Blog reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a warning to political parties involved in the off-cycle governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States to refrain from using hate speech and offensive language during their campaigns.

The Commission also instructed parties to avoid carrying arms to campaign venues and to inform both the Commission and the Nigeria Police about campaign events at least ten days in advance.

These guidelines were included in a statement released by the Commission on Friday. The statement also emphasized that, according to the Electoral Act, all candidates should have access to public facilities for their campaign activities.

Sam Olumekun, the National Commissioner for Information and Voter Education, reiterated the importance of adhering to legal provisions before, during, and after the election.

The statement reads:

“Following the publication of the final list of candidates for the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo States, public campaigns have commenced in earnest.

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“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.

“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’.

“Furthermore, under Section 95(3-5), it is obligatory for public media houses to allot equal coverage and visibility to all parties and candidates. Section 95(6) provides sanctions against heads of public media organisations, their principal officers, and other officials for contravention.

“A publication containing the Commission’s guidelines for the conduct of political rallies, processions, and campaigns is already uploaded to the Commission’s website (www.inecnigeria.org). For emphasis, the same document is now uploaded to our social media platforms.

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

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