The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), in collaboration with the Nigeria Police Force, has issued a firm warning to political parties and aspirants across the country against engaging in premature campaign activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a high-level roundtable held at the Electoral Institute in Abuja, INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, expressed deep concern over the growing trend of subtle and overt campaign activities occurring well before the legally permitted window. He cited Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which clearly prohibits political campaigns earlier than 150 days before polling day and mandates cessation of all campaign activities 24 hours before voting begins.
“Political parties, candidates and their supporters seem to be perpetually in election mode even when the Commission is yet to release the timetable and schedule of activities for elections,” Professor Yakubu stated.
The INEC Chairman emphasized that such premature actions undermine the Commission’s ability to monitor campaign financing and enforce spending limits, as large sums are being deployed outside the official campaign period. He called for urgent legislative reforms to empower INEC with the authority to sanction violators, noting that the current legal framework lacks provisions to penalize early campaign breaches.
Joining the call for stricter enforcement, Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, reaffirmed the Nigeria Police Force’s commitment to upholding electoral laws and maintaining political neutrality. He pledged that the police would take necessary steps to prevent unlawful campaign activities and ensure compliance with the Electoral Act.
Former INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, also lent his voice to the discussion, urging for a more robust regulatory framework that holds both candidates and their parties accountable for premature campaign actions, including those carried out by third-party agents.
INEC announced plans to work closely with the National Assembly and other stakeholders to review the Electoral Act and introduce stiffer penalties for early campaigning. The Commission reiterated its dedication to preserving the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process and ensuring a level playing field for all political actors.