2027: INEC warns political parties against early campaigns ahead of elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has warned political parties against launching early public campaigns for the 2027 General Election, stating that such actions violate the Electoral Act.

The Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr Rotimi Oyekanmi, issued the warning during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.

He was responding to a question regarding the ongoing subtle campaigns and distribution of posters across the country ahead of the 2027 General Election.

He stated that INEC has not yet released the official timetable for the election.

“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.

“Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 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.

“Section 95(1) of the Act also states clearly 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,” he said.

The press secretary noted that although Nigerians are free to engage in political discussions and share their opinions about the upcoming general election, any open campaigning or solicitation of votes for the 2027 polls is both inappropriate and a breach of the Electoral Act.

He highlighted the issue to all political parties during INEC’s most recent quarterly consultative meeting, emphasizing that the commission expects strict adherence to the law.