Abuja, Nigeria — The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned political parties and aspirants against premature electioneering ahead of the 2027 general elections. The Commission, through its Chief Press Secretary, Rotimi Oyekanmi, emphasized that it has not released an official timetable and any form of public campaigning constitutes a violation of the Electoral Act 2022.

Oyekanmi specifically cited Section 94(1) and Section 95(1) of the Act, which stipulate that public campaigns are only permissible 150 days before polling day and must conform to INEC’s regulations. The warning comes amidst an uptick in political posters and early positioning by aspirants across the country.

Meanwhile, internal restructuring is underway in the People’s Democratic Party (PDP) as it prepares for its national elective convention scheduled for November 15 in Ibadan. With the tenure of the current National Working Committee (NWC) set to expire in December, stakeholders are pushing for a consensus approach to selecting new party officers particularly the position of National Chairman.

Among those reportedly eyeing the top position are former Minister of Information Prof. Jerry Gana, former party chairman Kawu Baraje, ex-Governor of Kaduna State Ahmed Makarfi, and the acting chairman Umar Damagum, who is working to retain the seat.

However, party insiders remain divided over consensus. While some argue it will help prevent a post-convention crisis, others including Deputy National Youth Leader Timothy Osadolor warn that consensus could stifle internal democracy. Former leaders like Diran Odeyemi and Eddy Olafeso support consensus to preserve party unity, noting the PDP must avoid another leadership rift ahead of 2027.

Zonal disputes in the South-South and South-East continue to linger. FCT Minister Nyesom Wike has warned that failure to recognise outcomes of zonal congresses especially in Cross River State could spark fresh unrest. He insists on the recognition of Chief Dan Orbih as the South-South National Vice Chairman and urges the party to uphold legality in its leadership decisions.

Despite internal discord, the party has finalized preparations for the convention. According to the timetable released by the PDP’s National Organising Secretary Umar Bature, sale of nomination and expression of interest forms begins September 3, with screenings set for September 30.

However, the All Progressives Congress (APC) dismissed the PDP’s efforts. APC’s Director of Publicity, Bala Ibrahim, derided the PDP as a fractured party in “intensive care,” suggesting its November convention may mark the party’s final collapse.

As Nigeria inches toward 2027, both INEC and major political parties face the challenge of balancing legal compliance, internal cohesion, and public credibility.