The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned political parties and politicians not to begin campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the INEC Chairman, said the commission has not released the official timetable. Therefore, any campaign activity now is unlawful and premature.
“INEC has not issued the timetable or schedule for the 2027 elections. No party has conducted primaries or nominated any candidate,” he stated.
He referred to Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act, which allows campaigns only 150 days before the election. Campaigns must also stop 24 hours before voting begins.
Oyekanmi also cited Section 95(1), which mandates that all campaigns must follow INEC’s guidelines.
“Citizens can express political opinions, but organised endorsements, mobilisations, and political adverts before the official period are illegal,” he explained.
He added that INEC had already raised the issue during a recent meeting with political parties. The commission urged all parties to respect the law and avoid premature campaigning.
INEC encouraged politicians and supporters to wait for the official campaign timetable. Engaging in campaigns before the set time, it said, undermines the electoral process.
This warning follows a growing wave of endorsements and campaign posters supporting President Bola Tinubu’s second-term bid in several states.
