The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a clear warning to political parties and public figures jumping the gun with early campaigns for the 2027 general elections. The electoral body says such moves violate the Electoral Act 2022.
INEC’s Chief Press Secretary, Mr. Rotimi Oyekanmi, emphasized in a recent chat with the News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) that no official campaign season has begun. This follows reports of celebrities and political loyalists subtly campaigning for President Bola Tinubu and others—despite INEC not releasing a timetable yet.
Oyekanmi reminded everyone that, by law, campaigns are only permitted 150 days before polling day, ending 24 hours to the vote. Since no party primaries have been held and no candidates officially nominated, any open canvassing at this stage is illegal.
“People are free to discuss politics,” he said, “but asking for votes or openly campaigning right now? That’s crossing the line.”
INEC has already cautioned political parties during its last consultative meeting and expects total compliance moving forward. The message is simple: the race hasn’t officially started—so slow down.
