23/08/2026
LEGAL DEBATE: CAN CAMPAIGN COUNCIL MEMBERS BE PERSONALLY LIABLE FOR ELECTORAL OFFENCES?
So, you've landed a spot on a political campaign council. Does that mean you can just waltz into court if there's an electoral offence? The APC has just rolled out its 2027 campaign council list, and it raises a pretty crucial legal question: Does being part of a campaign council automatically put you on the hook for any wrongdoing during the campaign?
The short answer is no, not necessarily. Just being a member of a campaign council doesn’t make you guilty of an electoral offence right off the bat. Criminal liability usually hinges on the specifics of the offence, along with your actions, involvement, knowledge, or any other factors dictated by the law.
However, if you, as a council member, actively take part in, approve, direct, assist, or otherwise get legally tied to an electoral offence, then things could change.
If you join a political campaign council, should you be held legally accountable for any electoral offences committed by the campaign team?
A. YES — with leadership comes responsibility.
B. NO — criminal liability should hinge on personal involvement, not just your title.
What’s your take? Share your thoughts in the comments!
LegalDebate