The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political parties and stakeholders, cautioning them against embarking on premature public campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
The Commission stressed that any such actions constitute a clear violation of provisions contained in the Electoral Act.
This warning was delivered by Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, during an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja. Mr. Oyekanmi was responding to growing concerns over the proliferation of campaign posters and subtle political messaging already emerging across various states in the country.
He clarified that INEC has not yet released the official timetable or schedule of activities for the 2027 elections. Consequently, party primaries have not been conducted, and no political party has officially nominated candidates for the next general polls.
Quoting directly from the Electoral Act, Mr. Oyekanmi said, “Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 stipulates that the period for public campaigning by political parties shall commence 150 days before polling day and must end 24 hours prior to that day.” He added that, in accordance with Section 95(1) of the Act, both candidates and their parties are only permitted to campaign based on guidelines and regulations specifically provided by INEC.
While emphasizing that Nigerians have the constitutional right to engage in political discourse and freely express their views on future elections, Mr. Oyekanmi made it clear that overt campaigns or open solicitation of votes at this stage is legally inappropriate and contravenes established electoral laws.
He further revealed that INEC had addressed this growing trend during its most recent quarterly consultative meeting with political parties. At the meeting, the Commission reiterated the importance of complying with the rules and maintaining electoral order. According to him, INEC expects all political actors to demonstrate discipline by observing the statutory timelines and processes guiding electioneering activities in Nigeria.
Mr. Oyekanmi concluded by reminding political stakeholders that premature campaigning not only violates the law but also undermines the credibility and fairness of the electoral process. He urged all parties to await the official timetable, which will outline the appropriate windows for lawful campaign activities.