FCT Council Polls: INEC gives go-ahead for campaigns
David Ezeugoh, in Abuja –
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has granted political parties the permission to begin public campaigns for the 2026 Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections.
In a press statement by National Commissioner Sam Olumekun, who chairs the Information and Voter Education Committee, the campaign period will run from Wednesday, September 24, 2025, until midnight on Thursday, February 19, 2026, ahead of the elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026.
INEC reminded political parties, candidates, and their supporters that the Electoral Act 2022 forbids the use of abusive language, physical attacks on opponents, and destruction of campaign materials during rallies, meetings, and processions.
The commission emphasises that all parties and candidates must have equal access to public facilities for media campaigns, outdoor advertising, and public rallies and meetings, according to the electoral law.
INEC also warned against the abuse of incumbency, stating that the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits using government positions to give unfair advantage or disadvantage to any party or candidate during the campaign period.
The campaign start follows the commission’s ongoing voter registration exercise, which is currently taking place at ward levels across the FCT to ensure maximum participation in the upcoming Area Council elections.
