The Presidency has expressed concern over the emergence of billboards in cities like Abuja and Kano promoting a 2027 campaign for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima.
In a statement issued by Bayo Onanuga, Special Adviser to the President on Information and Strategy, the Presidency clarified that neither the President nor the Vice President has endorsed or authorized any such campaign.
“The Presidency has observed, with dismay, the increasing number of billboards in some cities promoting the 2027 campaign for President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Vice President Kashim Shettima,” Onanuga stated.
He noted that some of these billboards feature images of the President and his wife, Senator Oluremi Tinubu, and are particularly noticeable in Abuja and Kano.
While acknowledging the enthusiasm and support from loyal followers, the Presidency emphasized adherence to the nation’s electoral laws.
“While President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima greatly appreciate their teeming and loyal supporters across the country for their enthusiasm and continuing support, the two leaders do not support any campaign that breaches the laws of the land,” Onanuga said.
He highlighted that the Electoral Act prohibits premature campaigning, stating, “The electoral law that guides the conduct of elections and political campaigns forbids any form of campaign for the 2027 general elections. Premature campaigning can undermine the integrity of the electoral process and create unfair advantages.”
Onanuga further clarified that until the Independent National Electoral Commission sets the timetable for the 2027 elections, no campaign activities should commence.
“Until the Independent National Electoral Commission 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—be it Out-of-Home, print, digital, radio, or television,” he asserted.
The Presidency called on individuals and groups behind these premature campaigns to desist immediately.
“Therefore, we urgently call on individuals and groups funding this 2027 political campaign through the ongoing deployment of materials on billboards nationwide to cease immediately,” Onanuga urged.
Reiterating the administration’s focus, Onanuga stated, “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.”
He concluded by assuring that when INEC signals the commencement of the 2027 election process, President Tinubu will duly inform Nigerians of his plans.
