INEC Lifts Ban On Political Campaigns In Ondo

The Resident Electoral Commissioner in Ondo State, Mr Akin Orebiyi, has announced the lifting of the ban on political campaigns in the state.

Orebiyi made this known in Akure on Thursday during a stakeholders’ forum, which INEC organised ahead of the October 20 governorship election in the state.

According to him, political campaigns will start on July 21 and end on October 19

He said that the political parties could only commence their campaigns 90 days to the date of the election.

The commissioner said that the time table for the election was out, however, said that there would be no review of voters’ register as the commission would use the old one.

Orebiyi gave assurance that INEC would conduct free, fair and credible governorship election in the state.

He appealed to all political parties to play the game according to the rule and shun all forms of violence before, during and after the election.

He also urged politicians in the state and their supporters to conduct their campaigns in a peaceful manner by focusing campaign on issues rather than on personalities.

“Let the rallies bubble with meaning and purpose, with manifesto and promise on how we want to impact on the lives of the people of Ondo State,” he said.

Orebiyi advised journalists to report activities of each political party objectively, adding that they should remain unbiased throughout the campaign.

“INEC will relentlessly pursue the cause of truth and work strenuously to ensure that every vote counts and the wish of the electorate prevail in the governorship election comes October.