INEC to Monitor Campaign Spending and Sanction Vote-Buying Ahead of 2027 Elections

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plans to monitor illegal campaign spending as Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general election. INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, made this statement during a workshop for editors in Abuja.

Amupitan emphasized that the commission would work with various government agencies to oversee campaign finances and limit the impact of money on elections. These agencies include the Federal Ministry of Justice, the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission, and the Nigerian Financial Intelligence Unit.

He stated that joint teams would be set up to track illegal spending and conduct undercover surveillance at polling stations across the country. Political parties and candidates who attempt to buy votes or engage in violence will face legal consequences under the Electoral Act 2026.

Amupitan warned that anyone caught trying to exchange money or gifts for votes would be arrested and prosecuted. He also cautioned against political violence and hate speech as campaigns ramp up.

To address these issues, the Inter-Agency Consultative Committee on Election Security has initiated a system to monitor political violence and aggressive campaign tactics. Amupitan stressed that no political position is worth risking lives and urged all involved to conduct themselves responsibly during the electoral process.