INEC Warns of Fines and Jail for Hate Speech in Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Oyo State has issued a warning regarding the consequences of hate speech and abusive campaigns by political parties and candidates. During a stakeholders’ meeting held at the INEC office in Agodi, Ibadan, on Thursday, Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC) Professor Adeniran Tella stated that candidates found guilty of hate speech could face fines of up to N5 million or 12 months’ imprisonment, while political parties could incur a fine of N10 million for a first offense.

Professor Tella expressed concern over the increasing use of inflammatory language in political campaigns and emphasized INEC's responsibility to monitor compliance with the Electoral Act 2026, which prohibits language that could incite violence or harm religious, ethnic, or tribal sentiments. He assured that INEC would maintain impartiality and transparency while urging political parties to communicate effectively with their members.

The meeting included representatives from various security agencies and civil society organizations, all advocating for peaceful and issue-based campaigns.