INEC threatens to deregister erring parties

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.

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