Nigeria’s electoral body, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), has issued a strong warning to political parties and politicians against starting campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The warning comes as political posters and early endorsements begin surfacing, sparking concerns over a premature start to the election season.
Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, emphasized that the commission has not yet released a timetable or schedule for the 2027 polls.
Therefore, all political activities such as campaigns and candidate nominations are currently not allowed.
INEC stressed that its rules, backed by the Electoral Act 2022, must be followed strictly to ensure a fair and credible election process.
Oyekanmi said, “The Independent National Electoral Commission has not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections.
To that extent, party primaries have not been held and no political party has nominated candidates for the next general election.”
He cited Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act, which permits political parties to begin official campaigns only 150 days before the election.
In addition, the law requires campaigns to end 24 hours before the day of voting.
Moreover, Section 95(1) of the same Act mandates that all campaign activities must strictly follow INEC’s guidelines and regulations.
According to Punch, INEC’s concerns were brought to the attention of political parties during its latest quarterly consultative meeting.
The commission urged all party representatives to avoid violating campaign rules.
While speaking on political expression, Oyekanmi clarified that although citizens are free to talk politics, open campaigns or asking for votes at this point is illegal.
“Any form of open campaigning or vote canvassing at this stage is not only inappropriate but a violation of the Electoral Act,” he said.
This INEC 2027 election warning signals the commission’s intent to strictly enforce electoral laws and maintain order ahead of the next general polls.
