INEC to politicians: Avoid use of language that can provoke violence

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned political parties against the use of language that can provoke violence.

Mahmood Yakubu, INEC chairman, said this on Monday at the opening of a two-day capacity-building workshop on “critical issues” in the Electoral Act, 2022, and the commission’s processes for the 2023 general election.

Yakubu, who was represented by Festus Okoye, INEC national commissioner and chairman, of the information and voter education committee, urged political parties to study the provisions of the constitution and the electoral act for proper conduct of political campaigns.

“A political campaign or slogan shall not be tainted with abusive language directly or indirectly likely to injure religious, ethnic, tribal or sectional feelings,” he said.

“Abusive, intemperate, slanderous or base language or innuendoes designed or likely to provoke violent reaction or emotions shall not be employed or used in political campaigns.”

Speaking further, he said the commission has undertaken eight out of the 14 items on the schedule of activities for the 2023 general election.

“On 4th October 2022, the commission will release the final list of candidates standing nominated in relation to state elections (governorship, deputy governorship, and state assemblies),” he said.

The chairman also said the campaigns for presidential and national assembly elections will commence on September 28, while that of governorship and state assembly candidates will start on October 12.

“The commission will continue to adhere to set timelines in carrying out its activities,” he added.

Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the All Progressives Congress (APC) recently announced appointments to their presidential campaign councils.