The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the Nigeria Police Force have warned political parties and candidates against embarking on early campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing such moves as a breach of electoral law.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, speaking at a roundtable on early campaigning in Abuja on Wednesday, expressed concern over what he called a “disturbing trend” of political activities taking place well before the legally approved timeline. He cited Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which stipulates that campaigns must not commence earlier than 150 days before polling day and must end 24 hours before voting begins.
“Political parties, candidates and their supporters seem to be perpetually in election mode even when the commission has not released the timetable. We have observed outdoor advertising, rallies, and media campaigns across the country. These premature actions undermine our ability to monitor campaign finance limits,” Yakubu said.
He lamented that while the law prescribes a fine of N500,000 for campaigning within 24 hours of an election, there is no penalty for campaigns that start before the 150-day threshold. Yakubu pledged that INEC would work with the National Assembly to amend the Electoral Act to empower the commission to sanction violators.
The warning has triggered sharp political reactions. Former INEC Chairman, Attahiru Jega, called for firm measures to curb the practice, while opposition parties — the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC) — accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of being the biggest offender. The APC, however, backed INEC’s position and rejected the allegations.
Meanwhile, Inspector-General of Police, Kayode Egbetokun, vowed to enforce the law, stressing that security agencies will not hesitate to act against any individual or group that disregards electoral rules.
With the next general election still nearly two years away, the warnings from INEC and the police highlight growing concerns that Nigeria’s political class is heating up the system long before the official campaign season begins.
