Did Obiano violate electoral act by addressing voters during election?

Osita Chidoka, United Progressives Party (UPP) candidate, has questioned Willie Obiano, Anambra state governor, on his right to address voters on election day.

Willie Obiano spoke to voters at his polling unit after casting his vote. He expressed joy at their turnout and said he would win the election by a landslide.

Chidoka, reacting in a tweet, drew attention to reports that Obiano had spoken to his supporters while voting was ongoing.

The UPP governorship candidate wondered whether the governor’s action was not a violation of electoral laws.

“An incumbent who goes to address voters during voting…is that not a violation of the electoral act?” Osita asked.

According to section 99, subsection 1 and 2 of the electoral act, all forms of political campaign must end 24 hours to the election.

“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,” the act reads.

“This refers to a registered political party or any person acting on its behalf during the 24 hours before polling day.”

It remains to be seen if Obiano broke any law by saying he would secure an emphatic victory.

TheCable