The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has warned politicians and political parties 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 crosses the legal line when it moves beyond political debate and policy criticism into intimidation, hate speech, threats or incitement to violence.
Oketola said the Electoral Act 2026 prohibits campaign language capable of provoking violent reactions or targeting people based on their ethnic, religious, tribal or regional identities.
He explained that INEC has the statutory responsibility to monitor political campaigns and enforce compliance with the Code of Conduct for Political Parties, although the Commission is not a security agency.
According to him, candidates convicted of offences relating to abusive campaign language could face a fine of up to ₦5 million or 12 months’ imprisonment, while political parties could be fined ₦10 million for a first offence and ₦2 million for subsequent offences.
He urged security agencies to prevent violence during political rallies and campaigns, while calling on the media to expose politicians who make incendiary statements.
Oketola also appealed to traditional and religious leaders to use their influence to discourage inflammatory rhetoric and promote peaceful political engagement.
He said the warning was necessary amid a growing number of controversial statements and threats by political actors across the country as parties intensify preparations for the 2027 elections.
Oketola stressed that political campaigns should provide an opportunity for politicians to present competing ideas and policies, rather than become platforms for threats, intimidation and violence.
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