INEC’s Inaction on Early Campaigns

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has been criticized for its inaction in checking early political campaigns ahead of the 2027 general election. Despite the official campaign season not yet beginning, there has been a surge in political posters, endorsements, and verbal exchanges among political figures.

A poster promoting President Bola Tinubu has sparked debate in Abuja, with INEC's Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Oyekanmi, stating that open campaigning for the 2027 election is inappropriate and a violation of the Electoral Act. Human rights lawyer Femi Falana has also condemned the early campaigns as illegal and urged INEC to enforce the law.

However, some believe that INEC lacks the authority to sanction political parties, particularly the Progressives Congress (APC), which has already started campaigning for President Tinubu's reelection bid. The situation highlights the need for INEC to enforce the Electoral Act and prevent premature campaigning in Nigeria.