Concerned observers of Nigeria’s democracy are raising the alarm over what they describe as blatant violations of the Electoral Act 2022, as politicians across party lines openly commence campaigns ahead of the 2027 General Elections.
Despite clear legal provisions regulating electioneering timelines, political actors have begun rallies, consultations and mobilisation drives several months — and in some cases years — before the legally permitted window.
Electoral Law Ignored
Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 stipulates that campaigns must commence 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to the election.
Section 95(1) further requires that campaigns comply strictly with regulations and guidelines issued by the electoral body.
However, compliance appears weak, with early campaign activities becoming increasingly visible nationwide.
Analysts warn that the disregard for electoral timelines underscores a growing culture of impunity, particularly among incumbents who wield the advantage of state power.
Governance at Risk
Critics argue that the rush toward 2027 risks distracting officeholders from governance. The premature politicking, they say, diverts attention from public service delivery and deepens political tension.
Recent mass defections and internal wrangling within major opposition parties have further heightened the stakes, fuelling early alignments and power calculations.
Observers caution that the desperation to secure political survival could escalate tensions during party primaries and general elections.
Civil Society Raises Concern
Election advocacy group YIAGA Africa has warned that mounting political tension and premature campaigns could erode public confidence in the electoral process.
The group’s Executive Director, Samson Itodo, called for stronger institutional safeguards to enforce compliance with electoral rules.
Public trust in elections, analysts note, has already been weakened by controversies surrounding the 2019 and 2023 general elections, as well as recent off-cycle polls.
INEC Urged to Act
Stakeholders insist that Nigeria’s challenge is not the absence of laws but weak enforcement.
They are urging the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to adopt a firmer stance against political parties that violate campaign regulations.
Experts argue that sanctions and public reprimands should be applied where necessary to deter further infractions.
As political activity intensifies ahead of 2027, observers say safeguarding the integrity of the electoral process will require decisive action to uphold the rule of law and restore public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.
