Nigeria’s electoral umpire INEC this evening announced a ban on all manner of campaigns for the 2015 general elections, decrying the manner in which desperate politicians are beating the gun.

“This trend is unhealthy and portends ill for the political process. Indeed, it is a threat to Nigeria’s democracy,” INEC said in a statement released in Abuja, the Nigerian capital. The statement signed by Kayode Robert Idowu, Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, says in full:

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has observed that some politicians and registered political parties have begun unbridled campaign towards the forthcoming General Election, thereby heating up the polity.

It is observed that campaign posters are being indiscriminately displayed, while electioneering broadcasts are being aired outside the statutory provision for campaigning towards elections into various elective offices.

This trend is unhealthy and portends ill for the political process. Indeed, it is a threat to Nigeria’s democracy.

The Commission hereby reminds all players of the provision of Section 99(1) of the Electoral Act 2010 (As Amended), which states as follows:

“For the purpose of this Act, the period of campaigning in public by every political party shall commence 90 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day.”

Political parties are advised to note that campaigning outside this provision is a violation of the law, and the Commission will not hesitate to apply appropriate sanctions against culprits as provided by relevant sections of the law.

Meanwhile, INEC calls on security agents to apprehend violators, whose activities in this regard pose a threat to public order.

The Commission enjoins all parties to play strictly by the rules, as part of a collective effort to ensure the success of the 2015 elections.

•Photo shows INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega.