Ahead of Saturday’s governorship election in Edo State, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned political parties and their candidates against campaigning for votes from Thursday, September 19, 2024.

The commission said this is in line with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, and item 12 of the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2024 Edo State governorship election.

National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee Sam Olumekun, who disclosed this on Thursday, observed that it is illegal for any political party in Edo State to engage in rallies, processions, or media campaigns from midnight today.

He said these prohibitions, including sanctions, are provided for in Section 96 of the Electoral Act 2022.

“Similarly, on Election Day, Saturday, 21st September 2024, parties, candidates and their supporters should not appear at the polling units in their campaign attires or carry any campaign materials with them,” he said.

“We urge parties, candidates and their supporters to take note of the provisions of the law for compliance.” he stated.

A total of 2,249,780 registered voters who have collected their Permanent Voters’ Cards (PVCs) will participate in Saturday’s poll to elect a new governor who will take over from the incumbent, Godwin Obaseki, who will complete his statutory eight-year tenure by November 12, 2024.

Asue Ighodalo of the governing Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Olumide Akpata of Labour Party (LP), and Monday Okpebholo of All Progressives Congress (APC) will battle 14 other candidates for the coveted position.