The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Mahmood Yakubu, has warned politicians against early political campaigns, saying they pose a serious threat to the country’s democratic system and are a direct violation of the nation’s electoral laws.
Mahmood Yakubu raised the concern on Tuesday at a stakeholder meeting in Abuja, where he pointed out that politicians and their supporters have been engaging in premature political activities despite the 2027 general elections being more than a year away.
According to him, outdoor advertisements, media campaigns, and rallies promoting political parties and aspirants are already being held across the country, undermining the spirit of fair competition.
“These actions and activities undermine the commission’s ability to track campaign finance limits as politicians, prospective candidates, and third-party agents expend large amounts of money that cannot be effectively monitored before the official commencement of campaigns,” he said.
Yakubu explained that while Nigerians expect INEC to act as a regulator, the commission’s hands are tied by gaps in the Electoral Act.
He noted that although Section 94(2) of the 2022 Act imposes a maximum fine of ₦500,000 for campaigning within 24 hours of an election, there are no sanctions for campaigns held more than 150 days before the polls.
“The major challenge for the commission is the law itself,” he stated.
The INEC boss urged the National Assembly to strengthen the country’s electoral framework, stressing that early campaigns not only compromise campaign finance monitoring but also heighten political tension.
He revealed that discussions have already begun with the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Electoral Matters to address the issue.
“With the National Assembly currently reviewing our electoral laws,” Yakubu said. “The commission has also invited the leadership of both the Senate and House of Representatives Committees on Electoral Matters.
“I am confident that they will give due consideration to actionable recommendations by experts.
Yakubu also commended the involvement of other regulatory agencies such as the National Broadcasting Commission, the Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria, and the Broadcasting Organisation of Nigeria in seeking practical solutions.
Observers note that premature political activities have become a recurring problem in Nigeria, with politicians often diverting attention from governance to campaigns years ahead of elections.
INEC warned that unless urgent action is taken to address the legal loopholes, early campaigns could further erode public trust and weaken the country’s democratic process.