FCT Polls: INEC Gives Political Parties Nod To Start Public Campaigns

The Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) has said political parties participating in the February 21, 2026, Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council election is now at liberty to start their campaigns in public.

INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, disclosed in a statement issued in Abuja that the campaigns commenced on Wednesday, September 24, 2025, and ended at midnight on February 19, 2026.

Olumekun reminded political parties, candidates and their supporters that it was unlawful to use abusive language, carry out physical attacks on opponents during rallies, processions and meetings or destroy their campaign materials.

He also insisted that all parties and candidates be given unimpeded access to public facilities for media campaigns, outdoor advertising, public rallies, and meetings.

According to Olumekun, Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits using incumbency to the advantage or disadvantage of any party or candidate.

“In line with the provision of Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and item 8 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities, Political Parties participating in the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council election are now at liberty to start their electioneering campaigns in public from Wednesday 24th September 2025 and end at midnight on Thursday, 19th February 2026.

“As enshrined in Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act 2022, the Commission wishes to remind Political Parties, candidates and their supporters that it is unlawful to use abusive language, carry out physical attacks on opponents during rallies, processions and meetings or destroy their campaign materials.

“Similarly, all parties and candidates must be given unimpeded access to public facilities for media campaigns, outdoor advertising, and public rallies and meetings. To avoid doubt, Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits using incumbency to the advantage or disadvantage of any party or candidate,” the statement reads.