INEC Issues Strong Warning Against Early 2027 Campaigns

INEC has cautioned political parties and candidates against early campaigning for the 2027 elections, stating that no official timetable has been released and such actions violate the Electoral Act.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a warning to political parties and politicians over premature campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.

INEC’s caution comes amid growing circulation of posters and endorsements related to the next election cycle.

According to Rotimi Oyekanmi, chief press secretary to the INEC chairman, stressed that “The Independent National Electoral Commission has not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections.”

He added: “To that extent, party primaries have not been held and no political party has nominated candidates for the next general election.”

Citing Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, Oyekanmi noted that political campaigns are only permitted 150 days before an election, and must end 24 hours prior to polling.

He also referred to Section 95(1), which mandates all campaigns to follow INEC’s guidelines and regulations.

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While affirming citizens’ rights to political expression, Oyekanmi emphasized that “any form of open campaigning or vote canvassing at this stage is not only inappropriate but a violation of the Electoral Act.”

He further revealed that INEC had addressed the matter with political party representatives at its recent quarterly consultative meeting and expects full compliance.