INEC Raises Alarm Over Premature Campaigns ahead of 2027 Elections

 

INEC Raises Alarm Over Premature Campaigns Ahead of 2027 Elections

 

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed concern over political aspirants engaging in campaigns ahead of the official period for the 2027 general elections.

 

Professor Mahmood Yakubu, INEC Chairman, spoke on Wednesday during a stakeholders’ meeting in Abuja with political party leaders and other electoral stakeholders. Represented by the Chairman of the Board of Electoral Institute, Professor Abdullahi Abdu Zuru, Yakubu described the early campaigns as violations of the Electoral Act, which mandates that campaigning for elective offices “shall commence 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day.”

 

“Nigeria’s democracy is still evolving and faces challenges, one of which is the increasing resort to early campaigns by political actors and their proxies in various forms,” Yakubu said. He noted that aspirants often use cultural festivals, religious events, billboards, branded vehicles, and social media campaigns to hint at their ambitions, bypassing the law.

 

The INEC Chairman emphasized that such actions undermine governance and public confidence in the electoral process. “When aspirants compete for visibility long before the official campaign period, it distorts fairness, increases political costs, and diverts attention from governance,” he said.

 

Yakubu further indicated that INEC may consider sanctions to enforce compliance and called for stronger regulatory frameworks, improved enforcement, cooperation from media and social media platforms, and intensified civic education to curb early campaigns.

 

“Democracy thrives on fairness, order, and adherence to the rules. Campaigns conducted within the legally stipulated timeframe ensure a level playing field, reduce tension, and enhance the credibility of elections,” he added.