The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political parties and their members to cease premature public campaigns for the 2027 general election, labeling such actions as a gross violation of the Electoral Act 2022.
The commission’s directive comes amid growing concerns over the proliferation of political posters, subtle endorsements, and heated verbal exchanges among political figures, which INEC deems inappropriate given the absence of an official election timetable.
In a statement to The Nation, a senior INEC source revealed that the commission raised the issue during its most recent quarterly consultative meeting with party leaders in Abuja.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission has not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Election,” the source said.
“To that extent, party primaries have not been held, and no political party has nominated candidates for the next general election. Any open campaign or canvassing for votes at this stage is not only inappropriate but a violation of the Electoral Act.”
Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 stipulates that public campaigning by political parties must commence no earlier than 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior.
Additionally, Section 95(1) mandates that candidates and parties adhere to INEC’s rules and regulations for campaigning.
The commission emphasized that while Nigerians are free to engage in political discussions, public campaigning or vote canvassing before the designated period contravenes the law.
Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, told PUNCH Online that the commission is particularly concerned about the rising visibility of campaign-like activities.
“The commission expects full compliance with the law,” Oyekanmi stated, noting that INEC has urged parties to refrain from such actions until the official campaign period is announced.
The warning follows reports of early political maneuvering, including endorsements for candidates like President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima by groups such as the defunct Congress for Progressive Change (CPC) youth leaders
