The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially declared the commencement of political campaigns ahead of the 2026 Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT).
The announcement was made on Wednesday via a statement issued by the National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, Sam Olumekun.
According to Olumekun, political parties are now permitted to begin their electioneering activities from Wednesday, September 24, 2025, with campaigns running until midnight on Thursday, February 19, 2026.
He noted that this timeline is in accordance with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, and Item 8 of the INEC Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the upcoming elections.
“Political parties participating in the 2026 FCT Area Council elections are now free to commence public campaigns from September 24, 2025, until the close of campaign at midnight on February 19, 2026,” the statement read.
INEC also reminded parties, candidates, and supporters of the legal and ethical guidelines governing campaign conduct.
“Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act, 2022, prohibit the use of abusive language, physical attacks on opponents during rallies or meetings, and the destruction of campaign materials,” the Commission stated.
In addition, INEC emphasized the importance of equitable access to public spaces and media platforms for all political actors.
“Parties and candidates must be allowed equal access to public facilities for campaign purposes, including outdoor advertising and media appearances. The law, under Section 95(2), forbids any use of incumbency to unfairly favour or disadvantage any political party or candidate,” the statement added.
INEC confirmed that the FCT Area Council elections will take place on Saturday, February 21, 2026.
