The Independent National Electoral Commission will on Wednesday, August 19, lift restrictions on public campaigns for the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections.
According to INEC’s timetable, the start of campaigns is the sixth activity lined up for the general elections.
Campaigns Begin 150 Days to Poll
The action follows Section 98(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which states that public campaigns must start 150 days before election day and end 24 hours to the vote.
With the ban lifted, parties and candidates can now hold rallies, run adverts, and begin direct voter engagement nationwide.
ALSO READ: LATEST: INEC challenges court over deregistration of ADC, others
Key Deadlines for Parties
INEC also reminded parties of urgent timelines tied to the election.
Parties have until Saturday, August 22, to substitute any candidate who decides to withdraw. Section 31 of the Act requires such withdrawals to be made in writing 90 days before polling.
By August 29, the close of business, parties must submit nomination forms 13A to 13E for all candidates they intend to sponsor, as provided in Section 30(1).
The commission will then publish the final list of nominated candidates on September 12, in line with Section 32(1), which demands publication at least 60 days before the election.
PDP Declares Readiness, IRI on Assessment Mission
The Peoples Democratic Party says it is set for the 2027 contest.
National Chairman Abdulrahman Mohammed stated this when he received a delegation from the International Republican Institute. He noted that the PDP has presence in all 36 states, the FCT and 774 LGAs, and has sustained democratic practice for over two decades.
“You were in Osun for the governorship election that took place two days ago, and you can attest to the outcome,” Mohammed said, adding that the party’s focus is delivering responsible leadership.
IRI African Regional Director Jenai Cox said the team is in Nigeria to assess the pre-election environment and preparations ahead of January. He added that the mission will share recommendations and release a preliminary statement by the end of the week.
With campaigns now authorized, political activities for 2027 are expected to pick up speed across the country.
