The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has raised alarm over the proliferation of campaign-style billboards and posters across major Nigerian cities, cautioning politicians to desist from such premature election activities.
Speaking on Wednesday at a stakeholders’ roundtable in Abuja, INEC National Commissioner and Board Chairman of The Electoral Institute, Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, warned that these early campaigns violate the Electoral Act and undermine the democratic process.
Prof. Zuru explained that many politicians are disguising early campaign efforts as gestures of “appreciation” or “philanthropy” through billboards, social media, and public events. He noted that recently, poster campaigns endorsing President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for a second term have appeared in cities including Abuja, Lagos, and Dutse, alongside billboards for former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and African Democratic Congress figures, particularly in northern states.
The next general election is scheduled for 2027. INEC reiterated Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which strictly prohibits political campaigns from beginning earlier than 150 days before polling day and mandates campaigns to end 24 hours before voting starts.
“The premature mounting of political billboards is a clear infringement of electoral laws,” Prof. Zuru said. He underscored the need for all stakeholders to adhere to legal campaign timelines to safeguard the integrity of elections and respect democratic norms.
INEC’s warning comes amid growing concerns about politicians’ attempts to influence voters well ahead of the official campaign period, potentially skewing the level playing field and encouraging electoral malpractice.
The commission urged political actors to focus on issue-based enlightenments and democratic engagement within the lawful framework as the countdown to the 2027 elections continues.
