Nigeria’s electoral landscape is buzzing with activity nearly two years before the 2027 presidential election, as individuals and parties launch early campaigns. This contravenes the Electoral Act, which permits campaigning only within 150 days of the election date. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has voiced concerns about this trend. Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu noted that Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 explicitly forbids campaigns before the 150‑day threshold, yet political actors routinely ignore the provision, engaging in outdoor advertising, media drives and rallies that promote various parties and candidates.
Yakubu warned that such premature activities jeopardize INEC’s ability to enforce campaign‑finance limits. The development has provoked sharp reactions across the political spectrum, with many fearing it could compromise the integrity of the 2027 election. 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 fulfill its constitutional duty by penalising early campaigners.
Former INEC Chairman Prof. Attahiru Jega cautioned that unchecked premature campaigning poses grave dangers to the 2027 elections. He argued that campaigns outside the legally prescribed period give unfair advantages to certain candidates, undermine the rule of law and entrench a culture of impunity among political actors. Human‑rights lawyer Femi Falana echoed this sentiment, urging INEC to arraign violators before the courts as a deterrent.
As the electoral umpire struggles to regulate early campaigning, concerns persist about the impact on Nigeria’s democratic process. With the 2027 election drawing nearer, it remains to be seen how INEC and other stakeholders will address the issue to ensure a free and fair electoral process. Failure to enforce the prohibition on early campaigns could erode transparency, fairness and impartiality, ultimately undermining the integrity of the election.
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