By Muhammad Mamman
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a firm directive to all political parties in Nigeria, including the APC, PDP, and ADC, to cease unauthorised campaigning for the 2027 General Election, warning that such actions contravene the Electoral Act 2022.
In an exclusive interview in Abuja, Rotimi Oyekanmi, spokesperson for the INEC Chairman, addressed the recent surge in subtle campaigns and the proliferation of election posters across the country. He clarified that the commission has not yet released the official timetable or schedule for the 2027 elections, rendering all current campaign activities premature and unlawful.
“Public campaigning is permitted only within a 150-day window before polling day, concluding 24 hours prior,” Mr Oyekanmi stated. “As party primaries have not occurred and no candidates have been nominated, any open canvassing for votes is a clear violation of the law.”
Citing Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, he reiterated that campaigning must adhere to INEC’s strict timeline. Additionally, Section 95(1) mandates that candidates and their parties comply with the commission’s rules and regulations.
While acknowledging Nigerians’ rights to engage in political discourse, Mr Oyekanmi cautioned that overt campaigning or soliciting votes for 2027 is both inappropriate and illegal. He referenced discussions from INEC’s recent quarterly consultative meeting with political parties, urging full compliance with electoral regulations to ensure a fair and orderly process
