As the governorship elections in Edo and Ondo states approach, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern reminder to political parties and candidates about the legal requirements for equitable access to public facilities.
In a statement released on Friday, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, emphasized the commission’s concern over the persistent misuse of incumbency power to block opposition parties and candidates from utilizing public facilities for campaign activities.
Olumekun highlighted that this misuse includes denying access to public buildings such as sports stadiums, restricting the use of state-owned media, imposing excessive fees for advertising, and the removal or vandalism of campaign materials. Such actions not only hinder the democratic process but also often lead to violent clashes among party supporters, disrupting public peace.
“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,” Olumekun stated. “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 vandalization of billboards and posters. These actions often result in violent clashes among party supporters and a breach of public peace.”
To address these concerns, Olumekun reiterated that Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 explicitly prohibits the use of state resources to benefit or disadvantage any political party or candidate. Additionally, Sections 95(3-5) mandate equal coverage for all parties and candidates by public media houses, with violations potentially resulting in sanctions against the heads and officials of these media organizations as outlined in Section 95(6).
“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’,” Olumekun emphasized. “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 organizations, their principal officers, and other officials for contravention.”
Olumekun stressed the importance of adherence to these regulations, adding that INEC has made guidelines for political rallies, processions, and campaigns available on its website and social media platforms to ensure clarity and compliance.
“The Commission calls on all concerned parties to adhere strictly to these guidelines and legal provisions,” Olumekun stated. “Ensuring a level playing field is crucial for the integrity of the electoral process and for maintaining public trust in our democratic institutions.”
