With Nigeria’s next general elections still two years away, the nation has already plunged into what looks like a full-blown campaign season. Across the country, billboards of political figures are springing up, social media platforms are buzzing with campaign messages, and political rallies are being disguised as public events. This early start to campaigning has sparked heated debates about fairness, governance priorities, and the future of democracy in Africa’s most populous country.
A Heated Political Climate
Nigeria’s political landscape is known for its intensity, but the early activity ahead of the 2027 elections marks a new chapter. The ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has already endorsed President Bola Ahmed Tinubu as its candidate for a second term, while opposition leaders are uniting in unprecedented ways. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate Peter Obi have joined forces under the platform of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), presenting themselves as a formidable coalition against the APC.
This alliance brings together influential political actors, including former ministers, governors, and party leaders. For many Nigerians, it signals the possibility of a two-party-style face-off that could reshape the country’s electoral dynamics. For others, however, the intense politicking two years before the official timetable raises serious questions about governance and legality.
Breaking the Rules of the Game
Under Nigeria’s Electoral Act, open campaigning is not allowed until 150 days before an election. This means that, technically, no candidate or party should be actively campaigning at this point. Yet, the streets of major cities like Lagos, Abuja, and Kano tell a different story. Campaign posters, branded vehicles, and political advertisements are already flooding public spaces.
Parties often label these activities as “thank-you tours” or “project inspections,” but analysts note that they are thinly veiled campaign rallies. The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has issued several warnings, reminding politicians of the law and urging them to refrain from premature electioneering. Despite these warnings, enforcement appears to be minimal, and political parties are taking full advantage of the regulatory gap.
The Ruling Party’s Aggressive Push
The APC’s strategy is clear: secure visibility early and dominate the political conversation. Tinubu’s administration has been accused by critics of blurring the line between governance and campaigning. Several government projects have been renamed or tied closely to his name, while billboards and online campaigns subtly promote his 2027 ambitions.
Supporters argue that Tinubu’s team is simply promoting his achievements and continuity, but opposition groups see it as an unfair advantage that undermines the spirit of free and fair elections. This approach has intensified political tensions, with critics calling for stricter enforcement of campaign laws.
Opposition Strategy: A United Front
On the other side of the aisle, opposition parties are working to avoid the mistakes of 2023, when a divided opposition made it easier for the APC to secure victory. The Atiku-Obi alliance represents a strategic attempt to consolidate power, pool resources, and present Nigerians with a credible alternative.
The ADC, which is serving as the platform for this coalition, has undergone significant internal reforms, positioning itself as a unifying force for disgruntled voters. Party leaders are betting that this early start will help them gain momentum, especially among young Nigerians who make up over 60% of the population and are increasingly vocal about issues like insecurity, unemployment, and corruption.
The Risks of Early Campaigning
While early campaigns might seem like a sign of political enthusiasm, experts warn of potential downsides. Prolonged campaigns can shift focus away from governance, with leaders spending more time securing votes than solving pressing national issues. This could exacerbate problems like inflation, poverty, and insecurity, which are already eroding public confidence in political leadership.
Regional and civic organizations, including the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF), have criticized the early politicking as insensitive, especially at a time when millions of Nigerians are struggling economically. Analysts also caution that the high cost of campaigns in Nigeria—often running into billions of naira—could further entrench corruption, as politicians turn to questionable funding sources to finance their efforts over an extended period.
A Shift Toward American-Style Politics?
Observers say Nigeria may be moving toward an American-style, long-term campaign cycle, where politicians remain in constant campaign mode. This trend could fundamentally alter how elections are conducted in the country, making it even more difficult for smaller parties to compete.
While the ruling APC and the new ADC-led coalition appear prepared for a prolonged political battle, this shift raises questions about whether Nigeria’s electoral laws are strong enough to maintain fairness. Without stricter enforcement, wealthier parties may gain a disproportionate advantage, undermining the principles of democratic competition.
What Nigerians Want
For ordinary Nigerians, the priority remains good governance. Citizens want leaders who focus on solving insecurity, improving infrastructure, stabilizing the economy, and creating jobs. Many Nigerians view early campaigns as a distraction from these pressing issues. If political leaders continue to prioritize politicking over policymaking, they risk deepening public distrust in the democratic process.
However, some argue that early campaigns also have benefits. They provide voters with more time to scrutinize candidates, policies, and party platforms. If managed responsibly, a longer campaign season could encourage greater political engagement and awareness, helping citizens make more informed choices at the ballot box.
Conclusion: A Nation on Edge
As Nigeria barrels toward the 2027 elections, the early start to campaigns reflects both the high stakes of the upcoming contest and the urgency of political change. While the ruling APC pushes a narrative of continuity and stability, the ADC-led opposition is framing itself as a “rescue mission” for a struggling nation.
Whether this extended campaign season will energize voters or deepen political fatigue remains to be seen. One thing is certain: Nigeria is entering a pivotal moment in its democratic journey, and the choices made in the next two years will shape its future for decades to come.
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