Falana calls for end to early political campaigns in Nigeria
Femi Falana, a prominent human rights lawyer, has urged an immediate stop to ongoing political campaigns, warning that early politicking is harming governance and worsening insecurity. He referenced the election dates set by the Independent National Electoral Commission and criticized political actors for prioritizing campaigns over public service. Femi Falana highlighted the misuse of public funds on premature campaigns instead of essential sectors like education. He called on authorities to enforce existing laws regulating campaign periods.
What we know
- Femi Falana warned that premature political campaigns are undermining governance and worsening insecurity.
- The Independent National Electoral Commission fixed January 16, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections, and February 6, 2027, for governorship and state Houses of Assembly polls.
- Femi Falana cited Section 98(1) of the Electoral Act, 2026, which stipulates that campaigns should only begin 150 days before polling day.
- He criticized the diversion of public funds to "illegal campaigns" instead of sectors like education, mentioning the unaccessed N98 billion Universal Basic Education Commission grant.
- Femi Falana called on INEC, the Nigeria Police Force, and the State Security Service to enforce compliance with the law and halt further political campaigns.
