The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to aspirants and political parties participating in the upcoming Edo State governorship election. Anugbum Onuoha, the Resident Electoral Commissioner, emphasized that campaigning prior to the designated date is a violation that will not be tolerated.
Onuoha reiterated that the suspension on campaign activities remains in force and urged all parties and candidates to adhere to the specified date for commencement of campaigns, which is April 24. He emphasized that public campaigning for the primary election is illegal and urged compliance with the electoral timetable.
Furthermore, Onuoha called for the removal of billboards, signposts, and all forms of adverts in the public domain. Failure to comply with these directives will result in sanctions, he warned.
The commissioner clarified that INEC’s role is to compile reports for the commission’s headquarters rather than to announce primary election results, as the primaries are internal affairs of the respective parties. He indicated that the commission will submit a report on the All Progressives Congress (APC) primary election to the headquarters in Abuja.
The warning comes as a reminder to political actors in Edo State to respect electoral regulations and procedures. INEC’s firm stance on preventing premature campaigning underscores its commitment to ensuring a fair and lawful electoral process.
