SERAP Threatens Legal Action Over Early Election Campaigns

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission to punish politicians and political parties engaging in early election campaigns.

The group warned that failure to act could force it to seek legal measures against the commission.

The warning was contained in a letter dated 13 September 2025 and signed by SERAP’s deputy director, Kolawole Oluwadare. The group told INEC chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, to identify offenders, prosecute them, and develop strict rules to stop premature campaigns before the official timetable is released.

INEC recently admitted that political parties have been flouting campaign rules, noting that such actions have made it difficult to monitor campaign spending. The commission however claimed that there is no direct punishment for early campaigns, leaving a gap in enforcement.

SERAP dismissed the claim, insisting that INEC has constitutional powers to sanction offenders under existing laws. The group said early campaigns are unconstitutional, illegal, and harmful to democratic governance.

According to the organisation, many state governors are already using increased revenue from fuel subsidy removal to fund campaign activities while failing to improve social and economic services for their people. It noted that this practice undermines governance and creates unfair advantages for incumbents.

The group also raised concern that early campaigns have diverted public resources, disrupted essential services, and worsened poverty. It pointed to reports showing that more than 129 million Nigerians live in extreme poverty while some governors struggle to pay the new minimum wage of N70,000.

SERAP accused politicians of prioritising personal ambition over their constitutional duties. It said banners and rallies have already flooded several states, even though campaigns are only allowed to start 150 days before the 2027 general elections.

The group urged INEC to rely on sections of the Electoral Act and the Constitution to demand accountability from parties, enforce rules, and sanction violators. It argued that unchecked early campaigns erode fairness, transparency, and the rule of law.

SERAP gave INEC seven days to take action or face legal proceedings aimed at compelling the commission to protect constitutional provisions and ensure that campaigns only begin within the lawful period.

The group stressed that enforcing these rules is not only about legality but also about safeguarding public resources, promoting equal opportunity among candidates, and protecting the right of citizens to free and fair elections.