The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has warned political parties and candidates against using abusive, inflammatory, or threatening language during campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections.
INEC’s Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to its Chairman, Adedayo Oketola, said campaign rhetoric becomes electoral intimidation when it crosses from legitimate political criticism into hate speech, coercion, or threats of violence.
Oketola, who spoke in a telephone interview on Sunday, cited Section 96 of the Electoral Act 2026, which prohibits campaign messages capable of provoking violent reactions or inflaming ethnic, religious, tribal, or sectional sentiments.
He said candidates found guilty of violating the provision could face a fine of up to ₦5 million or 12 months’ imprisonment, while political parties risk a ₦10 million fine for a first offence and ₦5 million for subsequent offences.
The law also prohibits political parties, aspirants, and candidates from organizing or equipping groups for the use of force or coercion during campaigns.
Oketola said INEC could monitor campaigns, issue queries, and enforce compliance with the Code of Conduct for Political Parties, while security agencies would be responsible for maintaining law and order at political rallies.
He urged the police and other security agencies, the media, traditional rulers, and religious leaders to work together to prevent inflammatory rhetoric from escalating into electoral violence.
The warning comes amid growing concerns over inflammatory statements and threats by some political actors ahead of the 2027 polls.
INEC has previously called on political parties to conduct issue-based and peaceful campaigns within the confines of the law.
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