ABUJA, August 4, 2025 — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued a stern warning to political parties and aspirants, cautioning them against engaging in premature electioneering activities ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The Commission emphasized that early campaigning contravenes the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022, particularly as no timetable or schedule of activities for the 2027 elections has been released.

INEC’s warning came through Rotimi Oyekanmi, Chief Press Secretary to the Commission’s Chairman, during an exclusive interview with Online PUNCH on Monday.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission has not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections. To that extent, party primaries have not been held and no political party has nominated candidates for the next general election,” Oyekanmi stated.

Citing Electoral Law

INEC drew attention to Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which states that:

“Campaigning in public by political parties for an election shall commence 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours before polling.”

The Commission also referenced Section 95(1), which mandates that all campaigns must be conducted in line with INEC’s regulations.

“While Nigerians have the right and liberty to engage in political discussions and express their views on the next general election, any open campaign or canvassing for votes for the 2027 General Election is not only inappropriate but a violation of the Electoral Act,” Oyekanmi warned.

Rising Signs of Early Campaigning

The caution follows growing concerns over political posters, subtle endorsements, and heated rhetoric among political actors developments widely interpreted as signs of early campaigning.

While the 2027 general elections remain nearly two years away, political maneuvering appears to be intensifying, raising alarms over potential violations of electoral laws and the need to maintain a level playing field.

Reminder to Political Parties

According to Oyekanmi, the issue was recently addressed during INEC’s quarterly consultative meeting with political parties, where the commission urged stakeholders to comply fully with electoral guidelines.

“The attention of all political parties in Nigeria was drawn to this situation, and the Commission expects full compliance with the law,” he added.

INEC’s stance is seen as a move to uphold electoral integrity and prevent a chaotic pre-election atmosphere. Observers have welcomed the reminder, calling on parties to focus on internal reforms and issue-based dialogues rather than premature campaigns.