INEC Warns Political Parties Against Early 2027 Election Campaigns

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political parties against launching early public campaigns for the 2027 General Elections, emphasizing that such actions constitute a clear violation of the Electoral Act.

Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, delivered this caution during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, addressing concerns about subtle campaigns and poster distributions already being observed across the country.

Oyekanmi highlighted that INEC has not yet released the official timetable for the 2027 elections, stating, "Open campaigns are allowed only within 150 days before polling day and must end 24 hours prior to that day."

"INEC has not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections. To that extent, party primaries have not been held and no political party has nominated candidates for the next general election," he explained.

The press secretary referenced specific provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, noting that "Section 94(1) stipulates that the period of campaigning in public by political parties for an election shall begin 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day."

He further cited Section 95(1), which mandates that "a candidate and his or her party shall campaign for an election in accordance with such rules and regulations as may be determined by INEC."

While acknowledging that Nigerians are free to engage in political discussions and share opinions about the upcoming elections, Oyekanmi emphasized that any open campaigning or solicitation of votes for the 2027 polls is both inappropriate and a breach of electoral regulations.

The commission reportedly raised this issue during its most recent quarterly consultative meeting with political parties, stressing that INEC expects strict adherence to the law from all stakeholders in the electoral process.

This warning comes as political activities begin to intensify across Nigeria, with various interest groups and potential candidates positioning themselves ahead of the next general elections, despite being approximately two years away.

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