Femi Falana (SAN), Prominent lawyer and human rights activist, has berated the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for stopping political parties from resuming campaigns despite the postponement of general elections.
Okay Nigeria had reported that Mahmood Yakubu, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), answering questions during a briefing with various stakeholders in Abuja, said “No” to resumption of campaigns for the upcoming elections.
However, Falana, in a statement said that political parties were allowed by section 99 of the Electoral Act, to campaign up till 24-hours to the election.
He said the electoral body failed to pay attention to section 99 of the Electoral Act, which gave parties go ahead to resume campaign.
Falana said, “Meanwhile, INEC which has shifted the general election by seven days is alleged to have turned round to ban political parties and their candidates from further campaigning for votes.
“With respect, INEC has not paid attention to Section 99 of the Electoral Act which provides that the period of campaigning in public by political parties shall end 24 hours before polling day.
“Since elections have been shifted the period of campaign has also shifted and will end 24 hours to the new polling day.
“Therefore, the limitation of campaign imposed by INEC should be reversed without any delay.
“Furthermore, INEC should comply with all valid and subsisting court orders with respect to the candidates sponsored by political parties for the general elections.
“Otherwise, the courts may annul some of the elections conducted by INEC on grounds of exclusion of qualified candidates,” he said.
