INEC Unable to Sanction Premature Campaigns for 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has stated that it lacks the power to sanction politicians engaging in premature campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections. INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu made this known during a stakeholder roundtable in Abuja, citing the Electoral Act of 2022, which prohibits campaigning earlier than 150 days before polling.

Yakubu emphasized the need for possible amendments to the electoral act to address the challenge of enforcing the law against early campaigning. The commission has invited lawmakers, party leaders, and civil society groups to consider amendments to the electoral act.