The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political parties and aspirants jumping the gun with early 2027 election campaigns, stressing that no official green light has been given for political activities ahead of the next general election.
The commission’s caution comes in response to a growing wave of political posters, public endorsements, and rallies surfacing across the country—two years ahead of the constitutionally sanctioned campaign window.
Rotimi Oyekanmi, spokesperson to the INEC chairman, emphasized that the commission has “not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections.”
He stated categorically that party primaries have not taken place, and therefore, no political candidate has been duly nominated.
Quoting section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, Oyekanmi reminded stakeholders that campaign activities are only permitted 150 days before the date of the election, and must cease 24 hours before voting begins.
Section 95(1) further mandates that all campaign activity must adhere strictly to INEC regulations.
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“While citizens are free to engage in political conversations,” Oyekanmi noted, “any public canvassing for votes or organized campaign activity at this stage is not only premature—it’s a clear breach of the law.”
Sources within INEC confirmed that the matter was raised at the commission’s latest quarterly consultative meeting with political party representatives, where officials reiterated the need for restraint and compliance.
This warning may set the tone for increased regulatory scrutiny as Nigeria edges toward what promises to be a fiercely contested 2027 election cycle.
INEC has urged all parties to respect the electoral process, cautioning that early violations may attract sanctions under the law.
As the political atmosphere heats up prematurely, eyes are on INEC to enforce the rules and ensure a level playing field—when the race officially begins.