Fayose, Atiku, others risk jail term over campaign billboards

Many observers have expressed concern that the rancor and early pasting of campaign posters in Nigeria is an indication of dramatic things to come at the tail end of the year.

While many are saying it is too early to start campaigning, some contenders have started pasting posters, an act that contravenes the INEC electoral act, section 99 of the electoral act 2010

It could get a lot worse by December when people meet at home or at their constituencies to celebrate Christmas/New year

Gov Ayo Fayose posters:

Following his declaration of intention to contest in the 2019 election, the campaign posters of Governor Ayo Fayose has flooded the streets of Kaduna and Zaria.

Although, political parties are to commence campaigns in public ninety (90) days before election and end twenty four (24) hours to election.

About a month ago Governor Fayose of Ekiti state stormed the Eagle Square, Abuja venue of the national convention of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) dressed in his presidential campaign shirt.

It was earlier reported that Fayose declared his intention to run for the presidency in 2019 saying he will make it official on October 1.

According to online sources, Fayose said: “It is my right to be President of Nigeria as a citizen of this country. I am educated and I have experience in politics. I am vast in public administration. The people want me. I will vie for the presidency under whatever circumstance. I will contest and I will prioritize the interest of the people.”

Atiku posters flood Kebbi:

In January 2019, the campaign posters of former Vice President Atiku Abubakar was already being circulated across Kebbi State.

Atiku, who visited Kebbi during the Abdullahi Fodio 1805 book launch at the Emir of Gwandu’s palace, was surrounded by political supporters chanting “Say Atiku Turaki Adamawa for President 2019.”

The former vice president who was the chief launcher at the occasion donated N10 million.

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INEC electoral act 2010:

Independent National Electoral Commission(INEC) Section 99 of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended), forbids electioneering campaign until 90 days to election against any political party and individuals flouting the law, no matter how highly placed.

Penalty:

The penalty for contravening INEC electoral act is six months jail term or N500,000 fine, if taken to court.