The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has prevented public campaigning by presidential candidates until November 18.
This is in line with the timelines given by the agency and the provisions of the Electoral Act, INEC Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu said.
INEC chairman reminded political parties and their candidates that the end of primaries did not mean the immediate commencement of campaigns and he also advised the parties and their candidates to obey the rules of the electoral timetable.
“Section 99(1) prohibits campaigns by political parties earlier than 90 days before polling day.
“Therefore, going by the provisions of the Electoral Act and the Timetable and Schedule of Activities issued by the Commission, campaign for Presidential and National Assembly elections will commence on Nov. 18.
“Campaign for Governorship and State Assembly elections begins on Dec. 1.
“I call upon political parties and candidates to strictly adhere to these dates,’’ he said.