The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has admitted that it cannot sanction politicians or parties already engaging in early campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections due to gaps in Nigeria’s electoral laws.

INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, made this clear on Wednesday during a stakeholders’ roundtable in Abuja. He explained that while Section 94 of the Electoral Act 2022 prohibits campaigns earlier than 150 days before an election, the law does not provide penalties for those who break this rule.

“The law only allows mild sanctions, such as fines, for campaigns within 24 hours of polling day. But for early campaigns before the 150-day window, there are no penalties at all. That is the major challenge we face,” Yakubu said.

Despite repeated warnings, politicians and parties have already started campaigning. The ruling APC has endorsed President Bola Tinubu as its candidate for 2027, while the Labour Party’s Peter Obi has declared his interest in running again. Former Minister of Transportation, Chibuike Amaechi, has also announced his ambition under the African Democratic Congress (ADC).

Yakubu warned that the country risks being in “constant campaign mode,” which undermines governance and raises campaign costs. He added that INEC would continue to push for reforms to close these loopholes and ensure offenders face real sanctions.

INEC officials also pointed out that early campaigns are now spreading through cultural events, religious gatherings, billboards, and especially social media, where influencers and support groups flood platforms with songs, hashtags, and skits promoting candidates long before campaigns officially start.

Professor Abdullahi Zuru, Chairman of INEC’s Electoral Institute, stressed that the trend distorts fairness and distracts elected officials from their duties. He urged lawmakers to clearly define what counts as early campaigning in today’s digital era and introduce stronger enforcement measures.

INEC concluded that protecting Nigeria’s democracy requires urgent reforms and cooperation from all stakeholders, including political parties, legislators, civil society, and regulators.