Political parties have received the go-ahead from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to begin campaigns for the January 16, 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections from August 19.
President Bola Tinubu of the All Progressives Congress (APC) will face Peter Obi of the Nigeria Democratic Congress (NDC), Atiku Abubakar of the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and other candidates.
However, several parties are yet to commence campaign activities, with some citing the cost and lengthy five-month campaign period.
APC National Publicity Secretary, Felix Morka, said the party is preparing its nationwide campaign programme and would not be launching rallies immediately.
He explained that August 19 marks the beginning of the legal campaign period, but parties are not required to hold rallies on the first day.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) said it was fully prepared for the elections, while the Labour Party (LP) said it would rely on its grassroots structure and relationships with organised labour to mobilise voters.
Under the 2026 Electoral Act, presidential and National Assembly campaigns must begin 150 days before the election and end 24 hours before polling day.
INEC has fixed September 9 for the commencement of campaigns for the February 6, 2027 governorship and State House of Assembly elections.
Political parties have until August 22 to replace candidates who withdraw, while the final list of nominated candidates is expected to be published on September 12.
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