INEC Warns Politicians Against Premature Political Campaigns

By Patrick Titus, Uyo

The Independent National Electorial Commission (INEC) has warned political parties and their supporters in Akwa Ibom State to refrain from premature political campaigns, stressing that the violation of the Electorial Act would not be tolerated by the Commission.

INEC maintained that the current ban on political campaigning ahead of 2027 election has not been lifted.

INEC Resident Commissioner in the state, Prof. Anugbum Onuoha handed down the warning during an engagement with journalists and other stakeholders at the Commission’s office in Uyo, recently.

“Any form of early campaigning in violation of the Electoral Act will not be tolerated by the Commission. All political actors are expected to operate within the provisions of the law to ensure a peaceful and orderly electoral process,” Prof. Onuoha warned.

Onuoha, who recently assumed office as the new REC for Akwa Ibom state, however, reaffirmed the commitment of the Commission to neutrality, transparency, and strict compliance with the Electoral Act 2026 in the conduct of elections and other electoral activities in the state.

The new REC underscored the critical role of the media in deepening democracy and promoting public confidence in the electoral process.

According to him, the media remains an indispensable partner in voter education, public enlightenment, and the dissemination of accurate and credible information to the public.

He stressed that professional, fair and responsible journalism is essential to ensuring transparency and strengthening the credibility of the nation’s electoral system.

He said the commission appreciates the contributions of media practitioners in keeping citizens adequately informed and fostering greater understanding of electoral processes, guidelines and regulations.

Prof. Onuoha further assured journalists, political actors and other stakeholders of INEC’s readiness to sustain open engagement, constructive collaboration and timely clarification on electoral matters within the framework of the law.

He also urged media professionals to continue to uphold the ethics of journalism by ensuring accuracy, balance, fairness and objectivity in their reportage, particularly as preparations for future electoral activities gather momentum across the country.

Prof. Onuoha however, expressed optimism that sustained cooperation among the commission, the media, political parties and other stakeholders would further strengthen democratic governance and electoral integrity in the state.