INEC Opens Governorship, Assembly Campaigns Today
Candidates Risk ₦5m Fine or Jail for Hate Speech as Strict 2026 Rules Kick In
By Emeka Amaefula
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) on Wednesday, September 9, 2026, officially opened the campaign period for the 2027 governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections, scheduled for February 6, 2027.
Parties and candidates may now hold rallies, advertise and canvass for votes until February 4, 2027 — 24 hours before polling day — in line with Section 98 of the Electoral Act 2026.
The campaign season begins under tighter restrictions than previous cycles. Section 96 bans language that injures religious, ethnic or sectional feelings, as well as abusive, intemperate or provocative rhetoric. Violators face up to ₦5 million fine or 12 months’ imprisonment; parties risk ₦10 million for a first offence.
INEC’s Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, has warned politicians against hate speech, threats or intimidation, urging the media to expose offenders.
Section 97 prohibits threats of force or violence and the use of private militias or armed groups. Offenders face similar penalties. Campaigns are also barred from churches, mosques, police stations and public offices.
Religious, tribal or sectional campaigning attracts stiffer sanctions under Section 101 — individuals risk ₦3–5 million or jail, while parties face ₦30–50 million fines.
Spending is capped at ₦3 billion for governorship candidates and ₦100 million for Assembly hopefuls. Individual donations to a candidate cannot exceed ₦500 million. Exceeding limits attracts fines and possible imprisonment. Anonymous donations are banned.
Public media must give equal airtime and coverage. A total advertising blackout applies in the final 24 hours before voting.
Police Commissioners are mandated to provide security for peaceful rallies without obstructing legitimate political activity.
With five months of campaigning ahead, the message from INEC is clear: mobilise voters, but stay within the law. Violence, hate speech and excess spending will not be tolerated.
Emeka Amaefula
+234(0)8111813069
