Olusegun Ariyo
Senior Advocate of Nigeria, SAN, Femi Falana, has condemned the early political campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing them as illegal and a distraction from governance.
Speaking on Politics Today on Channels TV on Tuesday, Falana emphasised that the ongoing political campaigns are in clear violation of the Electoral Act.
He urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to caution politicians, including state governors, who are already engaging in pre-election activities.
“As far as the 2027 elections are concerned, the ongoing political campaigns are illegal. They are also diversionary because what Nigerians expect now and what the law provides for is governance, not distraction,” Falana stated.
He stressed that Nigeria’s laws do not permit electioneering activities this far ahead of a scheduled election.
“There’s no provision yet in the law for campaigns two years before an election. It’s not part of our legal framework,” he said.
Falana called on INEC to enforce the provisions of the Electoral Act and ensure that politicians comply with the stipulated timelines for campaigning.
He also urged the media to play its role in upholding the rule of law and holding politicians accountable.
“If those in power want to amend the law to allow early campaigns, that process should be followed. But until then, everyone must respect the law,” he added.
