The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political parties and aspirants, cautioning them against embarking on premature campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking to Online PUNCH on Monday, the Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, emphasized that the commission has not yet released the official timetable or schedule of activities for the upcoming elections. He noted that any form of early campaigning constitutes a direct breach of the Electoral Act.
His warning follows growing concerns over the proliferation of political posters, veiled endorsements, and increasing political rhetoric, all of which observers interpret as early signs of campaign activity.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission has not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections. Therefore, no party primaries have been conducted, and no candidate has been formally nominated,” Oyekanmi stated.
Citing Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, he explained that political campaigns are only allowed to commence 150 days before the election and must cease 24 hours before polling begins. He also referenced Section 95(1), which requires all campaign activities to adhere strictly to INEC’s regulations.
“While citizens are free to discuss politics and express opinions about the 2027 elections, any form of open campaigning or solicitation of votes at this stage is premature and violates the law,” he added.
Oyekanmi also disclosed that INEC had addressed the matter during its last quarterly consultative meeting with political parties, reminding all stakeholders of the need for strict compliance with the provisions of the Electoral Act.
“The Commission has already drawn the attention of all registered political parties to this issue, and we expect full adherence to the legal framework,” he concluded.
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