The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political parties in Nigeria, cautioning them against engaging in premature campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
INEC said it was illegal for any political party to embark on open campaigning or distribute promotional materials before the official schedule is released, noting that such activities contravene provisions of the Electoral Act 2022.
Speaking in Abuja on Monday, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, said the commission had observed subtle campaigns and the circulation of posters across the country, actions he described as clear violations of the law.
“Open campaigns are allowed only 150 days before the polling day and must end 24 hours prior,” Oyekanmi explained.
“As we speak, INEC has not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections. Therefore, no party is permitted to conduct primaries or nominate candidates yet.”
He cited Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act, which specifies the legal window for campaign activities, and Section 95(1), which mandates political parties and candidates to conduct campaigns in line with INEC’s rules.
While he acknowledged that Nigerians have the right to express political opinions, he emphasized that any attempt to canvass for votes or promote candidates at this stage was “not only inappropriate but unlawful.”
Oyekanmi further revealed that INEC had raised this concern during its last quarterly consultative meeting with political parties and expects full compliance from all stakeholders.
“INEC will not hesitate to take appropriate action against any political party that flouts the Electoral Act,” he said.
The caution comes amid increasing political maneuvering by major parties such as the All Progressives Congress (APC), Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and others who appear to be laying the groundwork for the 2027 race despite the absence of an official campaign timetable.
PLATFORM TIMES reports that INEC has reaffirmed its commitment to conducting free, fair, and credible elections, warning that the early politicization of the process threatens the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic system.
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