In a surprising development, billboards promoting President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima for the 2027 general elections have begun appearing across Nigeria. These unsolicited campaign messages, which prominently feature the images of President Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu, have been spotted in major cities like Abuja and Kano. They appear to carry campaign-style slogans aimed at generating early support for a re-election bid—well before the official campaign period begins.
One of the most visible billboards stands in the Area One district of Abuja, boldly reading “Grassroots support for Tinubu 2027.” Several others have emerged across northern cities, including Kano, fueling speculation about a coordinated effort to initiate premature political campaigns.
Presidency Issues Firm Rebuttal
Reacting swiftly, the Presidency released a strongly worded statement on Sunday, firmly dissociating President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima from the growing number of campaign billboards. According to the Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, neither the President nor his deputy has authorized or endorsed any individual, group, or organization to launch campaign efforts on their behalf.
“While President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima greatly appreciate the enthusiasm and loyal support from Nigerians across the country, they do not endorse or condone any campaign that violates Nigeria’s laws,” Onanuga stated.
He emphasized that these actions directly contravene the provisions of the 2022 Electoral Act, which explicitly prohibits political campaigns outside the timeline set by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Launching campaigns prematurely, he warned, threatens the fairness of the electoral process and creates an undue advantage, thereby eroding democratic integrity.
Presidency Reaffirms Respect for Law and Institutions
The statement made it clear that President Tinubu remains deeply committed to upholding Nigeria’s constitutional values. Onanuga stressed that both the President and Vice President are law-abiding leaders who would not participate in or promote any activity that undermines democratic institutions or electoral integrity.
“Until INEC officially announces the timetable for the 2027 elections, President Tinubu has not given permission to anyone to launch any form of campaign on his behalf, whether through billboards, newspapers, radio, television, or online platforms,” Onanuga explained.
He called on individuals and groups behind the unauthorized campaign materials to stop their actions immediately. The Presidency urged all political players to show restraint, respect electoral laws, and allow governance to take precedence over politics at this stage of the administration.
The Legal Implications of Premature Campaigning
The Nigerian Electoral Act of 2022 offers clear guidelines about the timing and conduct of political campaigns. According to the law, no political party, candidate, or supporter may begin any form of campaign until INEC publishes an official timetable and schedule. Campaigning ahead of this schedule not only violates the law but can also destabilize the political environment by shifting focus away from current governance issues.
Legal experts and electoral observers have repeatedly warned that early campaign activities undermine the level playing field needed for free and fair elections. The practice also places undue pressure on sitting governments to divert attention and resources toward political survival instead of national development.
INEC and Civil Society Voice Concern
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has echoed the Presidency’s concerns. The electoral body has consistently warned political actors about the dangers of violating campaign timelines. INEC officials stress that such premature actions weaken institutional credibility and risk drawing legal consequences for those involved.
Civil society organizations have also expressed disappointment over the appearance of the 2027 billboards. Advocacy groups argue that the focus at this point should be on nation-building rather than power retention. Many of these groups have issued public statements urging Nigerians to reject political distractions and demand performance from elected leaders instead.
Political Groups Draw Public Criticism
Several northern political and socio-cultural organizations have voiced concerns about the trend. Notably, the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) recently criticized politicians pushing early campaign narratives, urging them to redirect their energy towards solving Nigeria’s pressing problems.
The ACF emphasized that national issues like inflation, insecurity, youth unemployment, and poor infrastructure deserve immediate attention, not political maneuvering three years ahead of schedule. The group called for a halt to the growing political distractions that risk derailing policy implementation.
Public Reactions Highlight Growing Frustration
Among everyday Nigerians, the unauthorized campaign materials have sparked frustration and cynicism. Many citizens view the billboards as tone-deaf and self-serving at a time when the country faces severe economic and social challenges. Online and offline, discussions continue to reflect the public’s desire for results-oriented governance rather than premature political contests.
For millions of Nigerians grappling with rising food prices, joblessness, and insecurity, the appearance of early campaign billboards feels like a betrayal of the mandate given to President Tinubu in 2023. Numerous social commentators have taken to digital platforms to demand that politicians focus on delivering their promises before seeking re-election.
Presidency Emphasizes Development Agenda
Despite the distractions, the Presidency has reiterated its commitment to national development. According to Bayo Onanuga, President Tinubu remains focused on key governance priorities. These include revitalizing the economy, investing in human capital development, improving national infrastructure, strengthening social protection programs, and enhancing internal security.
“When INEC signals that the processes for the 2027 elections can start, President Tinubu will duly inform Nigerians of his plans,” Onanuga noted. “For now, the administration’s full attention is on building a prosperous and secure nation.”
This clear message seeks to reassure the public that governance, not politics, remains at the forefront of the administration’s agenda.
Conclusion: Law, Order, and Focus Must Prevail
The controversy surrounding the 2027 campaign billboards serves as a cautionary tale for political actors and supporters alike. In a democratic system, adherence to the rule of law is not optional—it is foundational. Premature campaigns not only breach electoral statutes but also divert attention from the urgent work of governance.
As the Presidency distances itself from the unauthorized materials and calls for legal compliance, Nigerians are watching closely. The future of the nation depends not on who begins campaigning first, but on who governs effectively today.
By focusing on current priorities and upholding electoral laws, political leaders can demonstrate true commitment to democratic values. The responsibility lies not just with President Tinubu’s supporters but with all Nigerians who seek a stable, just, and prosperous future.
