The Presidency has distanced itself from the increasing number of billboards in cities like Abuja and Kano promoting President Bola Tinubu’s 2027 campaign, describing such efforts as premature and unauthorized.
According to Bayo Onanuga, the President’s spokesman, these billboards, which feature President Tinubu and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, violate electoral laws that prohibit campaigning before the official timeline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
“Until the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) sets the timetable for the 2027 elections, the President has not endorsed or authorised anyone or any group to mount a 2027 campaign for him through any media channel,” the statement read.
Onanuga emphasized that President Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima appreciate the enthusiasm of their supporters but do not condone campaigns that breach Nigerian law.
“Premature campaigning can undermine the integrity of the electoral process and create unfair advantages. As law-abiding leaders, President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima do not support any action that undermines our institutions and the electoral process,” the statement added.
The Presidency clarified that President Tinubu has not authorized anyone to campaign on his behalf through any media channel until INEC sets the election timetable. Consequently, the President has urged individuals and groups funding these campaigns to cease immediately.
“President Tinubu and his deputy are fully committed to delivering the ongoing task of nation-building they have set for themselves. This commitment is evident in their focus on economic revitalisation, human capital development, infrastructural renewal, social investment, and national security,” the statement concluded.
When INEC officially signals the start of the election process, President Tinubu will announce his plans, according to the Presidency.
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