INEC Raises Alarm Over Early Political Campaigns Ahead of Legal Timeline

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has expressed deep concern over the premature commencement of political campaigns by some political parties, long before the timeframe permitted by law.

INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, voiced this concern in Abuja during the opening of a one-day roundtable on the challenges of early political campaigns in Nigeria. He emphasized that Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits campaigns earlier than 150 days before polling day.

According to him, political parties, candidates, and their supporters appear to be in a constant electioneering mood, often launching campaign activities even before the Commission releases the official timetable and schedule of activities for elections.

Professor Yakubu noted that INEC has observed outdoor advertisements, media campaigns, and rallies actively promoting parties and candidates, stressing that such actions undermine the Commission’s ability to monitor campaign finance limits. He explained that politicians, prospective candidates, and third-party agents expend large sums of money that cannot be effectively tracked before the official campaign window opens.

He further revealed that the absence of sanctions for campaigns conducted earlier than 150 days to an election poses a major challenge for the Commission in curbing the trend.

However, the INEC Chairman expressed optimism that the one-day roundtable, which brought together key stakeholders, including media executives from across the country, would proffer lasting solutions to this worrisome development. He highlighted that addressing early campaigns is particularly critical ahead of the forthcoming off-cycle governorship elections, the FCT Area Councils election, and the 2027 General Elections.

In his welcome address, Chairman of the Board of the Electoral Institute, Professor Abdu Zulu, lamented that aspirants often exploit cultural festivals, religious gatherings, and philanthropic activities to subtly announce their ambitions. He urged for sustained civic education to enlighten citizens, especially the youth, on the dangers of endorsing and promoting early campaigns.

The event was attended by members of the National Assembly, the President of the Nigerian Bar Association, representatives of the National Broadcasting Commission, the Broadcasting Organisations of Nigeria, and the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria. Former INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, delivered the keynote address.