Three months to the 2023 general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission has released its guidelines for the conduct of political activities. The Commission in a six – paged document titled CONDUCT OF POLITICAL RALLIES says that no political campaigns shall hold in places designated as religious centres, police stations and public offices. Political campaign shall not involve the use of abusive languages or any form of hate speech. It also stated that no person attending political rally, procession or campaign should be in possession of any offensive weapons and that the only people authorised to carry arms are police officers or members of security agencies who are specifically posted to be present at the respective political rallies or processions. INEC noted that the objective of political rallies was to project, offer, sensitize and create awareness about the party’s symbol, flag, slogan and manifesto. The Commission mandated political parties to submit a notification of schedule of their campaigns stating the date, time, venue, agenda and list of members of the organising committee and police approval within jurisdiction of the campaigns within minimum period not later than 10 days to the commencement of their campaigns. It stated that State apparatus including the media shall not be employed to the advantage or disadvantage of any political party or candidate at any election. It also added that political parties and candidates should conduct campaigns based on the constitution and manifestoes and comply with the provisions on the Regulations and Guidelines for the political parties issued this year by the Commission. Follows the political parties codes of conduct, regulations and guidelines that may be issued by the National Broadcasting Commission as well as COVID – 19 Safety protocols and other public health regulations and measures.
INEC RELEASE GUIDELINES BANNING CAMPAIGNS IN MOSQUES, CHURCHES
