Publish political donation limits for 2027 elections, SERAP tells INEC

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disclose and publish political contribution limits prescribed by the Electoral Act 2026 for the upcoming 2027 general elections. In a statement signed by the Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, the organization urged INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan to make this information widely available.

SERAP emphasized that this disclosure is crucial ahead of the 2027 elections, noting that INEC has already released the Notice of Election and the Timetable and Schedule of Activities. The organization specifically requested INEC to confirm if it has exercised its statutory power under Section 91 of the Electoral Act 2026 to set limits on political contributions, and if so, to publish the applicable limits and ensure they are communicated to political parties, candidates, donors, and the general public.

Additionally, SERAP asked INEC to reveal the systems, personnel, and procedures in place to monitor, investigate, and enforce compliance with political contribution and campaign expenditure limits during the preparations for the 2027 elections. The organization also sought details on INEC's methodology for monitoring political financing, including cash, in-kind contributions, digital and social-media financing, third-party expenditure, and donations through intermediaries that may circumvent statutory limits.

SERAP stressed that transparency is essential for a level playing field in the 2027 elections, enabling voters to make informed decisions. They argued that INEC's constitutional responsibility extends beyond receiving financial statements from political parties; it involves examining party finances, conducting investigations, and reporting to the National Assembly.

The organization highlighted that INEC's role in regulating political financing is vital to maintaining the integrity of Nigeria's democracy and preventing electoral distortions due to excessive financial influence.