By Balikis Ajoyo
Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, has warned politicians and political parties against using abusive, intemperate or inflammatory language during campaigns.
The commission said politicians who cross the legal threshold could face heavy financial penalties and possible imprisonment under the Electoral Act 2026.
The warning comes amid renewed concerns over threats allegedly issued by political office holders against voters and citizens expressing dissenting views.
Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, Adedayo Oketola, disclosed this in a telephone interview with our correspondent on Sunday.
Oketola explained that campaign rhetoric becomes electoral intimidation when it moves beyond legitimate partisan debate or criticism of government policies and enters the territory of coercion, hate speech or threats of harm.
He stressed that political actors are expected to conduct their campaigns within the limits of the law, particularly as political activities intensify ahead of the 2027 polls.
INEC’s position underscores the commission’s concern that inflammatory rhetoric could heighten political tensions, intimidate voters and undermine the credibility of the electoral process.
The commission therefore cautioned political parties, candidates and their supporters to moderate their language and avoid statements capable of inciting violence or threatening citizens for their political choices.
The warning comes as preparations for the 2027 general elections gather momentum, with political parties and prospective candidates increasingly engaging voters and mobilising support across the country.
INEC urged all political actors to embrace issue-based campaigns and respect voters’ rights to freely express their political preferences without fear or intimidation.