2027: SERAP asks INEC to disclose campaign donation limits

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has requested the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disclose campaign donation limits ahead of the 2027 general elections. In a Freedom of Information request, SERAP’s Deputy Director, Kolawole Oluwadare, addressed INEC Chairman Prof Joash Amupitan (SAN) and urged the commission to publish any limits prescribed under Section 91 of the Electoral Act 2026.

SERAP also asked INEC to explain its monitoring and enforcement procedures for political contributions and campaign expenditures during the upcoming election. The organization emphasized the importance of greater transparency in political financing to ensure fair elections and informed voting decisions. SERAP expressed concern over the increasing monetization of elections in Nigeria and warned that undisclosed political financing could distort electoral competition.

They specifically requested information on the systems, personnel, and procedures INEC has put in place to monitor cash, in-kind, digital, and social-media financing, third-party expenditures, and donations through intermediaries. SERAP highlighted Section 91(1) and (2) of the Electoral Act 2026, which grant INEC the power to set limits on individual contributions and require information on donated amounts and sources.

They also pointed out Section 91's sanctions for exceeding such limits. SERAP asked INEC to clarify its exercise of these powers and the methodology for determining the limits, including considerations for preventing financial influence, promoting fair competition, addressing corruption, and protecting electoral integrity. The organization invoked Sections 225 and 226 of the 1999 Constitution, which deal with political parties' financial affairs and INEC's responsibilities for their accounts.

SERAP urged the commission to disclose how it intends to monitor political financing during the election campaign, including expenditures and contributions involving cash, in-kind contributions, digital and social-media advertising, and third-party spending.