The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially lifted the ban on campaign activities for political parties participating in the 2026 Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections. Following a directive from INEC, political parties are now permitted to commence their electioneering campaigns publicly starting Wednesday, September 24, 2025. The campaigns will continue until midnight on Thursday, February 19, 2026, ahead of the scheduled election date of Saturday, February 21, 2026.
The announcement was made by Sam Olumekun, INEC National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, who reaffirmed that the commission’s decision aligns with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 and the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the elections.
INEC reminded political parties, candidates, and their supporters that the use of abusive language, physical attacks during rallies, and destruction of campaign materials remain prohibited under Sections 92 and 93 of the Electoral Act. The commission also emphasized that all parties must have equal access to public facilities for media campaigns, outdoor advertising, and public rallies to ensure a level playing field.
To promote fairness, the commission cited Section 95(2) of the Electoral Act, which prohibits the use of incumbency advantages or disadvantages to influence the election. INEC urged all stakeholders to maintain peaceful, issue-based campaigns throughout the election period.
With the resumption of campaign activities, political parties in the FCT area councils are gearing up to engage voters across the territory in what promises to be a closely contested series of elections aimed at strengthening grassroots governance.
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