Human rights lawyer, Femi Falana (SAN), has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to strictly enforce the provisions of the Electoral Act by prosecuting politicians and parties already engaging in premature campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Falana, in a statement issued on Monday, expressed concern over the rising cases of political rallies, billboards, and media advertisements by aspirants despite INEC’s clear timetable that official campaigns are yet to commence. He warned that the flagrant violation of the law not only undermines the electoral process but also threatens to tilt the playing field in favour of wealthy politicians.
“The Electoral Act is very clear on the timeline for campaigns. Unfortunately, many politicians are acting with impunity, turning the country into one large campaign ground years before the election. INEC must rise to the occasion by prosecuting offenders without fear or favour”.
He further noted that early campaigns often escalate political tension, distract sitting governments from governance, and impose unnecessary financial burdens on the political space. According to him, “If INEC continues to look away, it will embolden others to break the law, rendering the regulations meaningless.”
The senior advocate also urged civil society organizations, the media, and citizens to hold politicians accountable and demand compliance with electoral rules.
INEC, for its part, has repeatedly warned political parties against jumping the gun, but critics argue that enforcement remains weak as no high-profile offender has been prosecuted in previous election cycles.
Falana’s intervention comes amid growing debate over whether the early campaign culture should be criminalized more stringently or tolerated as part of Nigeria’s evolving democracy.
