The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to sanction politicians and political parties engaging in early campaigns ahead of the official timetable for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Sunday, SERAP expressed concern over the increasing cases of political actors violating electoral guidelines by mounting billboards, holding rallies, and making campaign promises long before INEC’s official declaration of campaign season.
According to SERAP, such actions not only undermine the rule of law but also give undue advantage to well-resourced politicians, thereby compromising the fairness of the electoral process.
“INEC must send a strong signal that violations of electoral rules will not be tolerated. Politicians and parties involved in premature campaigns should face appropriate sanctions as stipulated by the Electoral Act,” the statement read.
The organization emphasized that unchecked early campaigns could heighten political tension, distract from governance, and place unnecessary financial burdens on the democratic process.
SERAP urged INEC to invoke its constitutional and statutory powers to ensure compliance, stressing that transparency and fairness are essential for credible elections in Nigeria.
“INEC must demonstrate its independence by ensuring that all political actors, regardless of status or affiliation, abide by the same rules. Failure to act could erode public confidence in the Commission’s ability to conduct free and fair elections,” the group added.