Nigeria’s electoral landscape is witnessing heightened activity nearly two years ahead of the 2027 presidential election, with individuals and parties engaging in early campaigning. This Entwicklung contravenes the Electoral Act, which stipulates that campaigns can only commence 150 days before the election. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed concerns over this trend, with Chairman Prof Mahmood Yakubu highlighting the challenges posed by premature campaigns.
According to Yakubu, Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits the commencement of campaigns earlier than 150 days before polling day. However, he noted that political actors often disregard this provision, engaging in outdoor advertising, media campaigns, and rallies promoting various political parties and candidates. This has led to concerns that the electoral body’s ability to enforce campaign finance limits is being compromised.
The development has sparked sharp reactions across the political spectrum, with many worrying that the trend may compromise the integrity of the 2027 election. The main opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), have accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of being the worst offender. The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has also called on INEC to perform its constitutional duty by punishing early election campaigners.
Former INEC Chairman Prof Attahiru Jega warned that premature election campaigns pose grave dangers to the integrity of the 2027 elections if not urgently addressed. He noted that campaigns conducted outside the legally prescribed period confer unfair advantages on certain candidates, undermine the rule of law, and entrench a culture of impunity among political actors. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has also urged INEC to arraign those violating the rules against early election campaigns before the court to serve as a deterrent to others.
As the electoral umpire grapples with the challenge of regulating early campaigns, concerns persist about the impact of this trend on the country’s democratic process. With the 2027 election approaching, it remains to be seen how INEC and other stakeholders will address this issue to ensure a free and fair electoral process. The failure to enforce the prohibition against early election campaigns may erode transparency, fairness, and impartiality, ultimately undermining the integrity of the electoral process.
