by Dennis Amata

In about 24 hours, political parties will commence their campaigns for the 2023 general elections as contained in the announcement made by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) earlier this month.

For the Presidential and National Assembly, campaigns commence tomorrow, Wednesday, September 28, 2022, while that of Governorship and State Houses of Assembly will kick off on October 12.

Campaigns are a time of some excitement, but it is not a free-for-all, there are important guidelines as contained in the Electoral Act that define the boundaries of campaigns, and it is important for everyone, including political parties, candidates, and citizens, to be aware.

What is the Role of Security Agencies?

Section 91 Sub-section of the Electoral Act mandates the Commissioner of Police in each State and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to provide adequate security for proper and peaceful conduct of political rallies and processions in their respective jurisdictions. The Nigerian Security and Civil Defence Corps and any other security agency of the federal government may also provide support to the Police for this purpose.

Section 91 Sub-section 3 limits the function of the Police and any other security agencies during political rallies, processions, and meetings strictly to the provision of adequate security.

Section 91 Sub-section 4 states that no registered political party or candidate shall be prevented from holding rallies, processions, or meetings at any time for their constitutional political purposes.

What Kind of Campaign Content is Allowed?

Section 92 warns that political campaigns or slogans should not be tainted with abusive language directly or indirectly that may provoke religious, ethnic, tribal, or sectional feelings.

Can your Church or Mosque Host Campaign Rallies?

Section 92 Sub-section 3 forbids the use of worship centers, police stations, and public offices for political campaigns, rallies, and processions. The aforementioned places are also not to be used to promote, propagate or attack political parties, candidates, or their programmes or ideologies.

Continue reading: https://www.dataphyte.com/latest-reports/2023-election-important-electoral-provisions-to-note-as-campaigns-commence/

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