2027: INEC Warns Political Parties Against Early Campaigns Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has cautioned political parties against initiating public campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Election, emphasizing that such actions contravene the provisions of the Electoral Act.

Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, made the statement in an interview with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) in Abuja, responding to concerns about subtle campaigning and widespread distribution of posters across the country.

Oyekanmi clarified that INEC has not yet released the official timetable for the 2027 elections.

“Open campaigns are permitted only within 150 days before polling day and must cease 24 hours before the election,” he explained.

He further noted that since no official election schedule has been announced, political parties have yet to conduct primaries or nominate candidates for the upcoming polls.

Highlighting the legal framework, he referenced Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which specifies the official campaign period, and Section 95(1), which mandates that candidates and parties campaign according to INEC’s rules and regulations.

While Nigerians remain free to engage in political discourse and share views, Oyekanmi stressed that any public solicitation of votes or campaign activities before the authorized period violates the law.

He reiterated this position during INEC’s most recent quarterly consultative meeting, urging all political parties to strictly comply with the Electoral Act.