2027: INEC Cautions Political Parties Against Early Campaigning
2027: INEC Cautions Political Parties Against Early Campaigning
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Monday cautioned political parties and aspirants against engaging in early campaign activities ahead of the 2027 general elections, emphasizing that such actions violate the Electoral Act.
The Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Rotimi Oyekanmi, stated that the commission has not yet released the official timetable or schedule of activities for the 2027 elections.
His warning follows growing public concern over the increasing display of campaign posters, subtle endorsements, and rising political rhetoric—developments widely interpreted as early signs of electioneering.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission has not released the timetable or schedule for the 2027 General Elections,” he reiterated.
“To that extent, party primaries have not been held and no political party has nominated candidates for the next general election,” Oyekanmi said.
He cited Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which provides that campaigns by political parties may only begin 150 days before polling day and must end 24 hours before voting commences.
Oyekanmi further referenced Section 95(1), which mandates that campaigns must be conducted in accordance with INEC regulations.
“Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 provides that public campaigning by political parties shall begin no earlier than 150 days before election day and must end 24 hours before the polls open,” Oyekanmi explained.
He further noted that Section 95(1) of the Act clearly mandates that candidates and their parties must conduct campaigns in line with the rules and regulations set by INEC.
“While Nigerians are free to engage in political conversations and express opinions about the upcoming general election, any form of open campaigning or solicitation of votes for the 2027 polls at this stage is not only premature but also a breach of the Electoral Act,” he warned.
Oyekanmi added that INEC had already addressed the matter during its latest quarterly consultative meeting with political parties.
“All registered political parties were reminded of this at our last quarterly meeting, and the Commission expects them to fully adhere to the law,” he said.
