The Independent National Electoral Commission has cautioned political parties against early open campaigns for the 2027 General Election, describing it as a violation of the Electoral Act.

Spokesman for the INEC chairman, Rotimi Oyekanmi, issued the warning in an interview in Abuja, responding to a question about the current subtle campaigns and printing of posters taking place in the country ahead of the 2027 elections.

”Open campaigns are allowed 150 days before polling day and must end 24 hours prior to that day. INEC has not released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections,” said the INEC official. “To that extent, party primaries have not been held and no political party has nominated candidates for the next general election.”

Mr Oyekanmi added, “Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 stipulates that the period of campaigning in public by political parties for an election shall begin 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day.

“Section 95 (1) of the Act also states clearly that a candidate and his or her party shall campaign for an election in accordance with such rules and regulations as may be determined by INEC.”

He also mentioned that 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 votes for the 2027 general election was not only inappropriate but a violation of the Electoral Act.

He drew the attention of all political parties in Nigeria to the situation at the commission’s last quarterly consultative meeting, adding that INEC expects full compliance with the law.

(NAN)