…..INEC: Campaigns For 2027 Begin Aug 20, Polls Jan-Feb 2027
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Joash Amupitan, SAN, has urged political parties and candidates to uphold the National Peace Accord, warning that the credibility of the 2027 General Election will depend on the conduct of political actors and not just the electoral body.
Amupitan made the call on Tuesday in Abuja during the signing of the First National Peace Accord ahead of the 2027 elections.
He announced that public campaigns and rallies for the 2027 General Election will commence on Wednesday, August 20, 2026.
The Presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for January 16, 2027, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will hold on February 6, 2027.
Describing the accord as a critical milestone with the country exactly five months to the polls, the INEC Chairman said the document commits parties to issue-based campaigns and rejects character assassination, identity manipulation and inflammatory rhetoric.
“It is not the signatures written on this Accord today that preserve democracy; it is the character of the leaders who hold the pen,” Amupitan said. He urged presidential candidates and party leaders to ensure their supporters and structures respect the provisions.
He also warned against incitement, use of private armed squads and digital disinformation, saying such acts could compromise the process before Election Day.
Amupitan assured Nigerians that INEC is committed to improving transparency, including additional measures in result management to ensure voters’ choices are accurately reflected.
Earlier, the National Peace Committee, represented by General Martin Luther Agwai, CFR, said it has facilitated 30 peace accords since 2015 — five at the national level and 25 at the sub-national level. The committee also disclosed that independent peace structures have been established in 23 states.
The NPC urged politicians to compete fairly, debate respectfully and shun hate speech and misinformation.
Representing the Inspector-General of Police, DIG Umar Shehu Nadada said the Nigeria Police Force will remain professional and impartial and will work with INEC and other security agencies to ensure a peaceful electoral environment. He, however, charged political leaders to take responsibility for their supporters.
With the signing, preparations for the 2027 General Election have formally entered a crucial phase.
