Senior lawyer and human rights activist, Femi Falana (SAN), has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to take firm action against politicians who have already started campaigns ahead of the 2027 elections.

Speaking during a political program on Sunday, Falana described the practice of early campaigns as “wrong” and said those involved should be taken to court to test the strength of the law.

He explained that the law was made with the belief that Nigerian politicians would respect it, but since many are now breaking it, INEC must use the powers given to it by the Constitution and Electoral Act to create strong rules and ensure compliance.

Falana stressed that INEC has the authority to act, saying that the commission should charge violators in court and let them defend themselves before a judge if they believe there is no punishment stated in the law.

He also noted that anyone who refuses to obey a court order on the issue would be guilty of contempt, which could lead to a jail sentence.