The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political parties and individuals engaging in premature campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing such actions as illegal and contrary to the provisions of the Electoral Act.
The warning follows a wave of recent public political declarations and early campaign activities by some politicians eyeing the 2027 polls.
Addressing the development, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, emphasized that the Commission has not yet released the official timetable or schedule 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,” Oyekanmi stated.
While acknowledging the right of citizens to freely discuss political matters and future elections, he drew a sharp line between political discourse and actual campaigning.
“Any open campaign or canvassing votes for the 2027 General Election is not only inappropriate but also a violation of the Electoral Act,” he said.
Citing specific legal provisions, Oyekanmi explained, “Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 stipulates that the period of campaigning in public by political parties for an election shall commence 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day.”
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He further noted, “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.”
Oyekanmi added that all political parties were reminded of these regulations during INEC’s last quarterly consultative meeting and are expected to fully comply with the law.
With the 2027 elections still more than a year away, the Commission urged political actors to respect the timeline and refrain from premature electoral activities that could disrupt the democratic process.
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