INEC vows to sanction parties campaigning ahead of 2015 elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission has said it would sanction political parties that have begun campaigns ahead of the 2015 general election.
INEC said it was disturbed that some political parties have commenced pasting of campaign posters and radio jingles in violation of the electoral law.
According to a statement on Sunday by Kayode Idowu, the Chief Press Secretary to the Chairman of INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, the commencement of campaign in violation of the electoral law was capable of heating up the polity.
The presidential campaign posters of President Goodluck Jonathan and some serving governors have sprung up lately in some states of the federation and the Federal Capital Territory, Abuja.
Idowu said in the statement on Sunday: “”The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has observed that some politicians and registered political parties have begun unbridled campaign towards the forthcoming General Election, thereby heating up the polity.
“It is observed that campaign posters are being indiscriminately displayed, while electioneering broadcasts are being aired outside the statutory provision for campaigning towards elections into various elective offices.
“This trend is unhealthy and portends ill for the political process. Indeed, it is a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.
“The Commission hereby reminds all players of the provision of Section 99(1) of the Electoral Act 2010 (As Amended), which states as follows: “For the purpose of this Act, the period of campaigning in public by every political party shall commence 90 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day.”
“Political parties are advised to note that campaigning outside this provision is a violation of the law, and the Commission will not hesitate to apply appropriate sanctions against culprits as provided by relevant sections of the law.
“Meanwhile, INEC calls on security agents to apprehend violators, whose activities in this regard pose a threat to public order.
“The Commission enjoins all parties to play strictly by the rules, as part of a collective effort to ensure the success of the 2015 elections.”