In a press briefing held today in Edo State, the newly appointed Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Dr Anugbum Onuoha, expressed his dissatisfaction with the premature commencement of political campaigns by parties in the state, despite the existing ban on such activities.
Dr Onuoha emphasized that according to the law, political parties should refrain from campaigning until April 24th, continuing through September 21st.
He had earlier met with the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), where he conveyed his disappointment regarding the early campaign activities.
Dr Onuoha stressed the need for adherence to the stipulated campaign timeline and urged political parties to comply with the regulations.
Responding to questions from journalists about potential consequences for breaching campaign laws, the REC highlighted that punitive measures would be enforced, with some penalties being administered by the police and others by the electoral commission.
Dr Onuoha warned that continued violations, especially through major media outlets, would be reported to the National Broadcasting Commission (NBC) for appropriate action.
While the REC refrained from commenting on the recent All Progressives Congress (APC) Governorship Primary held in Benin City last weekend, he clarified that INEC’s primary role is to monitor political party primaries, not to declare winners.
Dr Onuoha emphasized that political parties are required to communicate the official date and venue of their primaries to the commission.
In a final plea, the REC urged all political parties to cease any form of campaigning until the official commencement date on April 24th, 2024, in line with the legal framework.
Prior to his recent appointment, Dr Onuoha served as the Head of the Department overseeing Property and Private Law at Rivers State University.
The Edo State Governorship Election is scheduled to take place on September 21st, 2024.