As 2019 election draws near, The Coalition of Journalists Against Corruption (COJAC) has called on politicians to play by the rules or risk being charged to court.
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Speaking to newsmen in Owerri, the Convener of COJAC, Chigozie Uzosike noted that in compliance with the constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and the Electoral Act 2010 ( as Amended), the Coalition has observed with dismay that some political parties have already started campaigning publicly, and by so doing , contravening the provisions of the Electoral Act 2010 ( as amended ) regarding public campaigns .
Mr. Chigozie advised politicians to strictly adhere to Section 99 (1 ) of the Electoral Act 2010 (as amended ), which stipulates that for the purpose of this Act, the period of campaigning in public by every political party shall commence 90 days before polling day and ends 24 hours prior to that day .
“ Section 100 (1 ) states that a candidate and his party shall campaign for election in accordance with such rules and regulations as may be determined by the commission .
“ Section 99 (2 ) (B ) also provides that amaximum fine of N500‚ 000 . 00 for contravening section ( 91 ) and (2 ) shall be
enforced .
The Convener however appealed to all registered political parties in the state to be law abiding to ensure that there is a peaceful conduct of 2019 General Elections.
COJAC used the medium to commend Frank Nneji who is governorship candidate of the All Progressive Grand Alliance, APGA who publicly disassociated himself from a campaign purportedly carried out on his behalf, stressing that the time for campaign has not started.
“That is the civility the Coalition wants from political parties/politicians” Uzosike stated.
He urged all politicians to follow the path of orderliness.