INEC’s Limited Powers Spark Debate Over Premature Election Campaigns

Political observers and stakeholders have expressed concern over the inability of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, to effectively control the activities of political parties across the country. Many believe that laws and regulations are rarely enforced as institutions either appear too weak or deliberately overlook violations.

INEC’s approach in handling the excesses of political parties, especially the ruling party, has drawn widespread criticism. During a recent roundtable convened by the electoral umpire to address premature election campaigns and other challenges, it became evident that INEC’s authority in such matters is limited.

The ruling party has been accused of leading in early campaigning after Abuja residents spotted large billboards across the city showing President Bola Tinubu alongside his wife Remi, with the inscription: “Grassroots Support for Tinubu 2027.” It was viewed as a premature announcement of the President’s second-term bid, coming three years ahead of the next general election.

Observers, however, argue that such campaigns might not have been directly initiated by the President or other aspirants but by third-party supporters seeking recognition or political favor. Others suggest that political opponents may sponsor premature campaigns to implicate rivals in violations of electoral laws.

Questions have also been raised about the failure of advertising regulatory agencies to verify or take down such billboards if they were unauthorized. Newsmen gathered that similar billboards bearing messages like “Tinubu Continuity 2027” alongside Governor Umar Namadi appeared on major roads and public spaces nationwide.

Social media platforms such as X, Facebook, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube have also been flooded with campaign songs, skits, and hashtags projecting particular aspirants. Despite INEC’s earlier warnings against such conduct, the Presidency denied any connection to the campaign materials and demanded their removal, a call that was largely ignored.

Newsmen further observed that aspirants and their supporters continue to exploit public gatherings, including cultural festivals, project commissioning ceremonies, book launches, and religious events, to subtly campaign.

Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 stipulates that campaigns may only begin 150 days before polling day and must end 24 hours before the election. Former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, speaking at the Abuja roundtable, highlighted the challenges in enforcing this rule. He explained that while Section 94(2) provides a fine of up to ₦500,000 for campaigning within 24 hours to polling day, it offers no penalty for campaigns starting before the 150-day mark, leaving a loophole that politicians exploit.

Analysts also question Section 92(4), which allows parties to hold rallies or meetings at any time for political purposes, saying this contradicts efforts to restrict premature campaigns.

Former INEC Chairman, Professor Attahiru Jega, has called for a clearer legal framework and stricter sanctions. He urged that all candidates and parties, especially incumbents, be held accountable for premature campaigns by third parties. Jega also recommended that agencies like the EFCC and ICPC investigate the funding of such campaigns.

He further advised that INEC and state electoral commissions collaborate closely to impose penalties where needed and advocated for the creation of an Election Offences Commission and Tribunal before the 2027 polls.

Speaking to newsmen, Ene Obi, former Country Director of ActionAid Nigeria, lamented the country’s disregard for the rule of law. She said many politicians deny responsibility for campaign posters or activities, blaming unknown supporters, while institutions like INEC fail to enforce accountability.

Obi stressed the need for civic education and patriotic leadership to ensure compliance with electoral laws, adding that without sanctions, lawlessness will persist.

Also speaking, the National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, Yunusa Tanko, accused the ruling party of already violating the law by engaging in early campaigns. He maintained that INEC has the authority to act and should not claim helplessness.

Meanwhile, the National Assembly has proposed shifting Nigeria’s next general elections to late 2026 — six months earlier than the traditional February 2027 schedule. The proposal, part of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2025, was introduced during a joint public hearing in Abuja.

On Thursday, the Senate confirmed Professor Joash Amupitan as the new INEC Chairman, replacing Mahmood Yakubu, who has completed his two terms. During his screening, Amupitan assured that the Commission would intensify voter education to rebuild public confidence in the electoral process.