YIAGA’s Itodo Slams Early Campaigns, Calls for Harsher Penalties

Executive Director of YIAGA Africa, Samson Itodo, has criticised political parties for engaging in premature campaigns ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing the practice as illegal and harmful to governance.

Speaking on ARISE News’ Prime Time on Thursday, Itodo noted that the law prohibits campaign activities earlier than 50 days before an election. He lamented that politicians appear more focused on politicking than delivering good governance, even though the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has yet to release the 2027 election timetable or conduct party primaries.

Itodo said the trend reflects impunity within the political class and urged for tougher sanctions against violators to uphold the law and protect the democratic process.