The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has announced the official commencement of electioneering campaigns for the 2026 Federal Capital Territory, FCT, Area Council election.
The Commission said political parties cleared to participate in the poll are permitted to begin campaigns in public from Wednesday, September 24, 2025, until midnight of Thursday, February 19, 2026, while the election itself is scheduled to hold on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
INEC, in a statement signed by its National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mr Sam Olumekun, emphasized strict adherence to the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022.
It reminded parties, candidates, and their supporters that the law expressly forbids the use of abusive language, physical attacks on opponents, or destruction of campaign materials during rallies, processions, and political meetings.
“All parties and candidates must also be given unhindered access to public facilities for media campaigns, outdoor advertising, rallies, and meetings,” the statement read.
INEC further invoked Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act, which bars the use of incumbency to confer undue advantage or disadvantage on any candidate or party.
The electoral umpire urged stakeholders to conduct their campaigns peacefully, within the bounds of the law, and in a manner that promotes democratic competition ahead of the February polls.
