Critics Slam INEC as Early 2027 Campaign Posters Flood Cities Despite Legal Restrictions
Rewritten Story:nwritten by Uzuh Rita Ocotber 24,2025
The Independent National Electoral Commission is under intense criticism as campaign posters for the 2027 general elections continue to appear across major Nigerian cities despite explicit legal provisions prohibiting premature political campaigning.
Stakeholders argue that Nigeria’s institutions show significant weakness in enforcing compliance with electoral laws. INEC’s perceived inability to rein in political actors, particularly the ruling party, has sparked nationwide concern.
This challenge became more evident following a recent stakeholder roundtable convened by INEC to address the rising trend of early campaigning. Discussions at the meeting highlighted the Commission’s limited authority under current legislation, leaving it unable to impose strict sanctions on offenders.
The latest controversy surfaced when residents of Abuja noticed large billboards featuring President Bola Tinubu and the message “Grassroots Support for Tinubu 2027.” Analysts described the development as a declaration of a second-term ambition three years before the polls. Additional banners, including those reading “Tinubu Continuity 2027,” were later spotted in several states.
Political commentators insist that such posters may not necessarily originate from aspirants themselves. They warn that third-party supporters or political opponents could be behind the displays, either to curry favor or to implicate rivals in illegal campaigning.
Questions have also been raised about the role of regulatory agencies responsible for approving outdoor advertisements. Concerns persist that these bodies either failed to verify compliance or deliberately ignored infractions.
The campaign push extends beyond public spaces. Social media platforms, including Facebook, X, TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube, have become saturated with promotional content ranging from songs to comedy skits supporting prospective candidates.
Although the Presidency has denied any involvement and instructed that the materials be removed, the directive has been widely ignored.
Observers note that politicians and their supporters often exploit official events, cultural gatherings, religious programs, and community projects to subtly advance political agendas.
Electoral Act 2022 mandates that formal campaigns begin no earlier than 150 days before Election Day and end 24 hours before voting. However, INEC officials acknowledge gaps in the law that limit their power to address early campaign violations. Former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu pointed to the absence of sanctions for activities occurring long before the permitted window.
Analysts have also pointed to Section 92(4) of the Electoral Act, which guarantees the right of political parties to hold meetings and rallies for constitutional purposes year-round, creating legal ambiguity that politicians exploit freely.
Former INEC Chairman Attahiru Jega has urged comprehensive reforms. His proposals include clear definitions of premature campaign offenses, strict penalties, and holding incumbents responsible for third-party political messaging. He also advocated for the establishment of an Electoral Offences Commission and Tribunal ahead of the next election cycle.
Civil society leaders share these concerns. Ene Obi, former ActionAid Nigeria Country Director, expressed frustration over poor adherence to the rule of law. She warned that incumbents often use public resources for campaign activities rather than governance, which undermines democracy and accountability.
Yunusa Tanko, National Coordinator of the Obidient Movement, insisted that current laws already grant INEC authority to punish defaulters. He accused the government and ruling party of being the primary violators.
Meanwhile, the National Assembly is considering moving the next general elections to late 2026 as part of wide-ranging amendments to electoral legislation currently under review. Lawmakers, activists, and election experts are contributing proposals to the reform process.
In a related development, Joash Amupitan has been confirmed by the Senate as the new Chairman of INEC following the completion of Mahmood Yakubu’s tenure. During his screening, Amupitan pledged to prioritize voter education and rebuild public trust in the electoral system.
The widespread disregard for campaign timelines, coupled with a lack of enforceable sanctions, continues to fuel public doubts about Nigeria’s commitment to credible, law-governed elections.
