Stakeholders call for stronger laws, stricter penalties, and civic education as INEC struggles to curb premature campaigns and restore electoral integrity.

Nigeria’s political landscape is once again under scrutiny as concerns mount over premature election campaigns and the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) capacity to enforce regulations. Stakeholders are voicing apprehension about the adherence to electoral laws, with institutions seemingly hesitant to uphold them.

The Core Issue: Breach of Electoral Timelines

At the heart of the controversy lies the violation of Section 94(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which stipulates that public campaigning can only commence 150 days before polling day. Despite this clear provision, political parties—particularly the ruling party—have been accused of engaging in early campaign activities.

Recent examples include billboards across Abuja promoting President Bola Tinubu’s potential 2027 candidacy, signaling a disregard for the law’s intent.

While some argue that these campaigns may be initiated by third parties seeking political favor or attempting to tarnish aspirants’ reputations, the reality remains that such actions violate the spirit of the law.

The failure of advertisement regulatory agencies to question or remove unauthorized campaign materials has further exacerbated the problem, while social media platforms have become flooded with campaign songs, skits, and hashtags promoting various aspirants.

INEC’s Legal Limitations

INEC’s outgone Chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, admitted that the Commission faces serious legal constraints in addressing premature campaigns.

Under Section 94(2) of the Electoral Act 2022, sanctions only apply to campaigns conducted within 24 hours before polling day, leaving a regulatory vacuum for campaigns launched earlier than 150 days before elections.

This loophole has made it difficult for INEC to curb early campaigning, as offenders often exploit the ambiguity in the law to evade accountability.

Expert Recommendations for Reform

Former INEC Chairman, Prof. Attahiru Jega, has proposed several reforms to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system:

These recommendations, if implemented, could help restore credibility to Nigeria’s electoral process and deter future violations.

Civil Society and Public Reactions

Civil society leaders have expressed frustration over the persistent disregard for the rule of law.

Mrs. Ene Obi, a prominent activist, lamented the lack of sanctions for offenders and emphasized the need for civic education to empower citizens to demand accountability.

Similarly, Yunusa Tanko of the Obidient Movement accused the government of flouting electoral regulations, warning that such actions erode public trust in democratic institutions.

Legislative and Institutional Developments

In response to these challenges, the National Assembly is reportedly considering a proposal to move the next general elections to late 2026, six months earlier than the traditional schedule.

The adjustment aims to create room for electoral reforms and institutional restructuring before the next major polls.

Meanwhile, Joash Amupitan has been confirmed as the new INEC Chairman, with a mandate to educate Nigerians, restore voter confidence, and strengthen regulatory enforcement.

The Path Forward

Addressing the issue of premature election campaigns and regulatory gaps is essential for ensuring free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria.

To achieve this, stakeholders emphasize the need to:

Only through these measures can Nigeria navigate its electoral tightrope and build a democracy rooted in transparency, fairness, and the rule of law.