Dare Babalola
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had kicked against premature political campaigns across the country, arguing that it threatens Nigeria’s democracy.
The Chairman of the INEC, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, stated this at a one-day roundtable on the challenges of early political campaigns, held at the Electoral Institute in Abuja on Wednesday.
Noting that early campaigns are direct violations of Nigeria’s electoral laws, Yakubu highlighted what he described as a “disturbing trend” of political campaigning ahead of scheduled timelines, especially in relation to upcoming off-cycle governorship elections, the Federal Capital Territory Area Council elections, and the 2027 general election.
The INEC boss said the country’s law prohibits the commencement of campaigns earlier than 150 days before polling day, backing his claim with Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022.
Yakubu, however, noted that political actors across Nigeria have often disregarded the provision.
The commission chairman said, “Political parties, candidates and their supporters seem to be perpetually in election mood even when the Electoral Commission is yet to release the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for elections.
“Around the country, we have seen outdoor advertising, media campaigns and even rallies promoting various political parties and candidates.
“These actions and activities undermine the commission’s ability to track campaign finance limits as politicians, prospective candidates and third-party agents expend large amounts of money that cannot be effectively monitored before the official commencement of campaigns.”
He noted that while Nigerians expect INEC, as the regulator of political parties, to act, the Commission’s powers are constrained by gaps in the legal framework. “The major challenge for the commission is the law itself,” he noted.
Although Section 94(2) of the Electoral Act 2022 imposes a maximum fine of N500,000 for campaigning within 24 hours of an election, Professor Yakubu pointed out that “there is no sanction whatsoever concerning breaches for campaigns earlier than 150 days to an election.
“Here lies the challenge for the commission in dealing with the early campaign.”
He acknowledged that early campaigning is not a new issue, but said the failure of regulatory bodies to address it within existing legal constraints necessitated deeper reflection.
“The seeming inability of the commission and other regulatory agencies to deal with the menace within the ambit of the existing electoral legal framework calls for deep reflection,” Yakubu said.
He added, “With the National Assembly currently reviewing our electoral laws, the commission has also invited the leadership of both the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Electoral Matters.
“I am confident that they will give due consideration to actionable recommendations by experts.”
He also acknowledged the participation of regulatory agencies, including the National Broadcasting Commission, the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, and the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria, expressing optimism that the discussions would yield practical solutions.
The INEC chairman’s remarks came amid rising political activity nationwide, despite the 2027 general election still being more than a year away. Across the country, politicians have been hosting large gatherings, commissioning constituency projects, and holding “empowerment” events—many of which are disguised campaign efforts.
