2026 FCT Elections: INEC Lifts Campaign Ban, Abuja Set For Political Showdown

According to Ireporter Online, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has lifted the restriction on political campaigns ahead of the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections.

INEC explained that its decision aligns with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and item 8 of the approved timetable and schedule of activities.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun, the electoral body announced that campaigns would run from Wednesday, September 24, 2025, until midnight on Thursday, February 19, 2026.

“Political parties participating in the 2026 FCT Area Council elections are now at liberty to commence their electioneering campaigns in public,” the statement declared.

The Commission emphasized that all political parties and candidates must be granted equal access to public facilities for campaign purposes, including media platforms, outdoor advertising, rallies, and meetings. It also cautioned against the misuse of incumbency to confer undue advantage or disadvantage on any party or candidate, in line with Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act 2022.

Olumekun further reminded stakeholders of the provisions in Sections 92 and 93 of the Act, which prohibit abusive language, physical attacks, or the destruction of opponents’ campaign materials during rallies and processions.

“It is unlawful to use abusive language, engage in physical violence, or destroy campaign materials of opponents,” he warned.

INEC assured that it would continue to monitor compliance with these regulations while urging political parties, candidates, and supporters to embrace peaceful and issue-based campaigns that strengthen democracy and build public confidence in the electoral process.