The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially declared the commencement of the campaign season for the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections, granting political parties the liberty to begin public electioneering activities from Wednesday, September 24, 2025.
The announcement was made in a press release issued by Sam Olumekun mni, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
According to the Commission, the campaign period is set to conclude at midnight on Thursday, February 19, 2026, paving the way for the election itself, which is scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026.
The timeline is in strict adherence to Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and the officially released Timetable and Schedule of Activities.
While granting the approval, INEC issued a stern warning to all political actors, reminding them of the legal framework governing campaign conduct. Citing Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act 2022, the Commission emphasized that the use of abusive language, physical attacks on opponents during rallies, and the destruction of campaign materials are unlawful acts that will not be tolerated.
Furthermore, the electoral body underscored the importance of a level playing field. It stated that all parties and candidates must be granted unimpeded access to public facilities for media campaigns, outdoor advertising, and the organization of public rallies and meetings.
In a specific caution to government officials, INEC highlighted Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022, which expressly prohibits the use of incumbency power to unfairly advantage or disadvantage any political party or candidate.
“For the avoidance of doubt,” the statement read, “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.”
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