The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has
threatened to deregister erring political parties.
On Friday, chairman of the commission, Prof. Yakubu Mahmood,
said they would not hesitate to sanction any of the political parties that
violated the laws.
He said: “The Commission will continue to strictly monitor
the activities of all political parties and will not hesitate to apply
sanctions against any violation of the law governing the terms and conditions
of your registration.
“I wish to remind all political parties that the law also
provides for de-registration of parties. We shall vigorously apply this aspect
of the law as the need arises.
“As we approach some of the outstanding bye-elections, the
three Governorship Elections in Anambra, Ekiti and Osun States and ultimately
the 2019 general elections, the Commission will pay special attention to the
conduct of political parties as well as their candidates and supporters.
“Hate speech and other violations of the electoral acts
attract appropriate sanctions under the law. I wish to assure all political
parties that we shall continue to consult you as major partners in the
electoral process.
“We will continue to work with the inter-Party Advisory
Council in our shared commitment to improving our electoral process.”
The number of political parties in Nigeria now stands at 45.
By Ifreke Inyang
