Politicians, parties, and the general public have been reminded of the rules governing election campaigns by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
As the campaigns for the presidential and national assembly elections get underway today, the commission declared that it will not tolerate any acts of violence or hooliganism.
On Tuesday in Abakaliki, Joseph Chukwu, the Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) for Ebonyi, met with party chairmen and leaders.
The official cautioned candidates and parties against using derogatory language and reminded them that they had to follow the rules and restrictions on fundraising.
Chukwu made it clear that the campaigns for the State House of Assembly and for governor would start on October 12.
The REC encouraged candidates and political parties to carefully abide by section 92 of Part 5 of the 2022 Electoral Act.
The rule prohibits using abusive language in ads or slogans that could offend people’s religious, ethnic, tribal, or sectional sentiments.
No vulgar, slanderous, or abusive words, insinuations, or innuendos that could incite violent feelings or behaviours are permitted.
Additionally, during political campaigns, no political party, candidate, or aspirant shall use or use masquerades.
It is forbidden to hold demonstrations or campaigns in police stations, public buildings, or places of worship, or to criticise political parties, candidates, or their platforms and beliefs.
Chukwu urged the parties to warn their supporters, standard-bearers, and members of the public about potential violent acts.
”Such actions include destruction and or defacing campaign billboards and posters of candidates and denial of political parties access to public facilities for rallies.
“Scheduling of political rallies by two or more political parties the same day at the same venue close to each other”, he added.
The INEC representative said that the commission would penalise parties that violated any Electoral Act provisions.
