The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cautioned political parties and candidates against embarking on early public campaigns ahead of the 2027 general election, warning that such actions violate provisions of the Electoral Act.
Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, issued the warning in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja.
Oyekanmi was reacting to a growing wave of subtle political campaigns and the widespread appearance of campaign posters across several parts of the country—despite the absence of an official election timetable.
“INEC has not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections. Therefore, no party primaries have been conducted and no candidates have been officially nominated,” he stated.
Quoting Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act, Oyekanmi emphasized that public campaigns are only permitted within 150 days before the scheduled polling day and must end 24 hours prior. He also cited Section 95(1), which requires all candidates and their parties to campaign strictly in line with INEC’s guidelines.
“While Nigerians are free to hold political conversations or express their opinions, any form of open solicitation for votes at this point is premature and constitutes a breach of the law,” he warned.
The electoral body, he noted, had earlier addressed the issue during its recent quarterly consultative meeting with political parties, stressing the importance of legal compliance as the nation gradually moves toward the 2027 polls.
INEC’s warning comes amid rising political activity across various states, raising concerns about campaign spending, electoral fairness, and voter fatigue long before official campaigning begins.
