- INEC instructs all political parties in Edo State to cease campaigns by midnight on September 19, ahead of the governorship election
- Political activities after the deadline will incur penalties, including restrictions on wearing campaign attire and bringing materials to polling stations
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has instructed all political parties in Edo State to end their campaigns before the upcoming governorship election on Saturday.
In a statement signed by Sam Olumekun, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, the Commission stated that all campaign activities must stop by midnight on Thursday, September 19.
INEC emphasized that any political activity after midnight will result in penalties. The Commission clarified, “No political party in Edo State is allowed to hold rallies, processions, or media campaigns after midnight.”
Additionally, the Commission reminded parties, candidates, and supporters that they cannot wear campaign outfits or carry campaign materials to polling stations.
This follows Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and the 2024 Edo State Governorship Election Timetable, which outlines that all campaigns must end at midnight on Thursday, September 19, 2024.
Campaigns after this deadline are illegal and subject to sanctions, as Section 96 of the Electoral Act 2022 outlines. Furthermore, on Election Day, September 21, 2024, candidates and their supporters must not wear campaign attire or bring promotional materials to polling units.