The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political parties and aspirants regarding premature campaigning for the 2027 general elections. INEC emphasizes that any form of active campaigning at this stage constitutes a clear violation of the Electoral Act 2022. The commission’s spokesperson, Rotimi Oyekanmi, clarified that INEC has not yet released the official timetable or schedule of activities for the 2027 polls, therefore, any activities resembling campaigns are premature and unlawful. This caution comes in response to growing public observation of early campaign activities, including the proliferation of political posters, subtle endorsements, and escalating verbal exchanges among political figures.
INEC’s position is firmly grounded in the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022. Section 94(1) of the Act explicitly states that the official campaigning period commences 150 days before polling day and concludes 24 hours prior to voting. Furthermore, Section 95(1) mandates that all campaign activities must adhere to the regulations and guidelines established by INEC. By engaging in premature campaigns, political parties and candidates are not only disregarding the legal framework but also undermining the integrity and fairness of the electoral process. INEC’s proactive stance aims to ensure a level playing field for all contestants and maintain public trust in the electoral system.
The commission acknowledges the fundamental right of citizens to engage in political discourse and express their views on the upcoming elections. However, INEC draws a clear distinction between general political discussions and overt campaigning. While expressing opinions and analyzing potential candidates is permissible, any activities that involve actively soliciting votes or promoting specific candidates before the official campaign period constitute a violation of the Electoral Act. This includes, but is not limited to, distributing campaign materials, organizing rallies, and making public endorsements. INEC’s objective is to maintain a clear separation between pre-election political discourse and formal campaigning to prevent undue influence and ensure a fair electoral contest.
INEC has taken proactive steps to address this issue by directly communicating its concerns to all registered political parties in Nigeria. During the most recent quarterly consultative meeting, INEC explicitly reminded the parties of their obligations under the Electoral Act and emphasized the importance of adhering to the stipulated campaign timelines. This direct engagement underscores INEC’s commitment to ensuring compliance with the law and maintaining a level playing field for all participants. By engaging with political parties directly, INEC aims to foster a shared understanding of the rules and regulations governing the electoral process and promote a culture of compliance.
The commission’s warning serves as a crucial reminder of the importance of adhering to the legal framework governing elections. Premature campaigning not only undermines the integrity of the electoral process but also creates an uneven playing field, potentially disadvantaging candidates who choose to abide by the rules. By enforcing the provisions of the Electoral Act, INEC aims to create a more equitable and transparent electoral environment. This commitment to fairness and transparency is essential for building public trust in the electoral process and ensuring the legitimacy of election outcomes.
INEC’s proactive stance in addressing premature campaigning is a testament to its commitment to upholding the principles of free, fair, and credible elections. By enforcing the provisions of the Electoral Act and engaging directly with political parties, INEC strives to create an environment where all contestants have an equal opportunity to present their platforms to the electorate. This commitment to a level playing field is crucial for fostering healthy political competition and ensuring that the will of the people is accurately reflected in the election results. The commission’s vigilance in monitoring and addressing premature campaign activities is essential for safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process and promoting democratic values.
