The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has fired a stern warning to political parties, including the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), and the African Democratic Congress (ADC), over what it calls unauthorised and illegal electioneering ahead of the 2027 general elections.

With political posters flooding streets and subtle campaigns already underway across the country, INEC has declared the move as a clear violation of the Electoral Act — and vowed that it will not sit idly by.

INEC Chairman’s spokesperson, Rotimi Oyekanmi, didn’t mince words during an interview in Abuja. “Let me be clear: INEC has not released the timetable or schedule of activities for the 2027 elections. No party primaries have been held. No candidates have been nominated. Any form of open campaigning at this point is illegal,” he said.

Quoting the Electoral Act 2022, Oyekanmi reminded political parties that campaigns are only allowed 150 days before polling day and must stop 24 hours before voting begins — a window yet to be activated by INEC.

He emphasized that while Nigerians are free to discuss politics and speculate about 2027, open canvassing for votes or campaign rallies at this stage is not just premature — it’s unlawful.

INEC also revealed that the matter had been raised during its last quarterly consultative meeting with political parties, stressing that it expects total compliance from all actors going forward.

As tensions rise and political gladiators begin jostling for 2027, INEC has made it clear: any party that jumps the gun will face the full weight of the law.

Minister of Works, David Umahi, has issued a passionate appeal to the Southeast: deliver at least 90% of your votes to President Bola Tinubu in 2027 — or forget any realistic hope of producing a Nigerian president in the near future.

Speaking  during a recent engagement, the former Ebonyi State governor and key Tinubu ally stressed that only genuine political loyalty, not emotions or “empty noise,” will pave the way for the emergence of an Igbo president.

“We must not be deceived again,” Umahi declared. “If we want to lead this country, we must first show that we can support others. It’s time to stop darkening counsel without knowledge.”

Taking a swipe at supporters of Peter Obi and other opposition voices, Umahi urged the Southeast to ditch sentiments and embrace political realism, arguing that consistent alignment with national politics is the only viable strategy.

 “President Tinubu has shown unwavering love and fairness to the Southeast. The least we can do is rally behind him,” he said.

Amid recent claims of marginalisation in road infrastructure projects, Umahi defended the Tinubu administration’s commitment to equity and national development. He maintained that the Southeast is already benefiting from Tinubu’s presidency — and stands to gain even more by staying the course.

 “Let us not be swayed by hate, misinformation, or emotional politics. All zones are benefitting from Tinubu’s presidency. We must support him to finish his eight years. One day, it will be our turn — but not in 2027.”

The minister also praised the performance and cooperation of Southeast governors, urging the people to re-elect them for continuity.

 “Our governors are doing great work and aligning with the federal government’s vision. Let us give them the support they deserve.”

Umahi’s remarks add to the growing political recalibration within the Southeast as the countdown to the 2027 general elections begins in earnest.

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Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has officially declared his intention to seek re-election for a second term in office on the platform of the All Progressives Congress (APC).

Governor Oyebanji made the announcement on Monday during a meeting with members of the APC State Working Committee at the party’s secretariat in Ado-Ekiti.

The governor’s declaration marks the beginning of his re-election campaign ahead of the 2026 governorship polls, as he seeks to consolidate on his first-term achievements.