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Political parties in Edo State have been directed by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to halt their campaign activities ahead of the upcoming gubernatorial polls on Saturday.

According to a statement from Sam Olumekun, INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of Information and Voter Education Committee, all campaigns must cease by midnight on Thursday, September 19, 2024.

INEC emphasized that any form of rally, procession, or media campaign after this deadline would be illegal.

The commission also reminded candidates, parties, and their supporters that they must not wear campaign outfits or carry promotional materials to the polling stations on election day.

The statement referenced Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and item 12 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the Edo State governorship election, warning of penalties for any violations as stipulated in Section 96 of the Electoral Act.

INEC noted, “It is illegal for any political party in Edo State to engage in rallies, processions or media campaigns from midnight.

“The Commission wishes to remind political parties that in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, and item 12 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2024 Edo State Governorship election, all campaigns by political parties end at midnight today, Thursday 19th September 2024.

“It is therefore illegal for any political party in Edo State to engage in rallies, processions or media campaigns from midnight today. These prohibitions, including sanctions, are provided for in Section 96 of the Electoral Act 2022.

“Similarly, on Election Day, Saturday 21st September 2024, parties, candidates and their supporters should not appear at the polling units in their campaign attires or carry any campaign materials with them.”