The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has admitted it lacks the legal authority to sanction political parties and candidates engaging in early campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, made this known on Wednesday at a roundtable discussion in Abuja, themed “The Challenges of Premature Political Campaigns in Nigeria”, organized by the Commission.
Yakubu explained that while Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits election campaigns earlier than 150 days before polling, the law does not provide any penalties for such violations. As a result, INEC is unable to take action against parties or individuals who breach this provision.
He said the only enforceable sanction under Section 94(2) is a fine of up to ₦500,000 for campaigns conducted within 24 hours of polling day. He described the penalty as mild and insufficient to deter offenders.
“Political parties, candidates and their supporters seem to be perpetually in election mode, even when INEC is yet to release the timetable or schedule of activities,” Yakubu stated. “We have seen outdoor advertisements, media campaigns, and rallies promoting various candidates across the country.”
He warned that these activities not only undermine governance but also frustrate INEC’s ability to monitor and enforce campaign finance regulations, as significant spending occurs outside the official campaign period.
Yakubu stressed that the absence of legal consequences has emboldened politicians to flout the rules, and called for the criminalisation of premature campaigns as part of ongoing electoral reforms.
He added that INEC had invited key stakeholders including members of the National Assembly, to consider amendments to the Electoral Act that would provide for clear sanctions and enable more effective enforcement ahead of the 2027 polls.
