The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cautioned political parties and politicians against early open campaigns for the 2027 general election, describing such as a blatant violation of the Electoral Act.
This admonition was contained in a statement issued by the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, in Abuja, in response to a question on the current subtle campaigns and printing of posters going on in country ahead of the 2027 general election.
“INEC 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.
“Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 stipulates that the period of campaigning in public by political parties for an election shall commence 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day.
“Section 95 (1) of the Act also states clearly that a candidate and his or her party shall campaign for an election in accordance with such rules and regulations as may be determined by INEC,” he said.
INEC noted that while Nigerians have the right and liberty to engage in political discussions and express their views on the next general election, any open campaign or canvassing votes for the 2027 general election, was not only inappropriate but a violation of the electoral act.
INEC drew the attention of all the political parties in Nigeria to the situation at the commission’s last quarterly consultative meeting, adding that INEC expects full compliance with the law.
