INEC Faces Constraints in Sanctioning Early Campaigns by Nigerian Politicians

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) explained its inability to sanction politicians for early campaigning due to legal constraints. INEC Chairman Professor Mahmood Yakubu cited Section 94(2) of the Electoral Act 2022, which imposes mild sanctions for breaching campaign rules.

Despite warnings, politicians like Bola Tinubu and Peter Obi have engaged in early campaign activities for the 2027 general election. INEC emphasized the limitations in enforcing sanctions against violators.

The issue of premature political campaigns poses a challenge to electoral regulations in Nigeria, with parties like the All Progressives Congress and Labour Party already making early endorsements for the upcoming election.