Publish political donation limits for 2027 elections, SERAP tells INEC

The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on Nigeria's Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to disclose and publish the limits on political contributions. This demand comes ahead of the 2027 general elections, for which INEC has already released the election timetable.

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to urgently disclose whether the Commission has exercised its statutory power to prescribe limits on political contributions under section 91 of the Electoral Act, 2026, and, if so, to publish the applicable limits and widely communicate them to political parties, candidates, donors and the Nigerian public.

SERAP specifically asked the electoral commission whether it has set limits on political contributions under the Electoral Act, 2026. If limits exist, SERAP wants them widely communicated to political parties, candidates, donors, and the public. The organization also seeks information on the systems and procedures INEC has in place to monitor and enforce compliance with these limits and campaign expenditure rules.

The transparency group emphasized the need for clear methodologies in monitoring political financing. This includes identifying and addressing cash and in-kind contributions, digital financing, and donations through intermediaries that might circumvent legal limits. SERAP believes this transparency is essential for ensuring a level playing field in the 2027 elections and enabling voters to make informed choices.

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INEC’s constitutional responsibility is not simply to receive financial statements from political parties. The Constitution requires the Commission to examine political-party finances, conduct necessary investigations and report to the National Assembly. Publishing these reports would enable Nigerians to know whether these constitutional and statutory responsibilities have been effectively discharged.

According to SERAP, INEC's constitutional duty extends beyond merely receiving financial statements from parties. The commission must examine finances, conduct investigations, and report to the National Assembly. Publishing these reports would demonstrate whether these responsibilities are being met. SERAP warned that the increasing monetization of Nigerian elections and potential misuse of state institutions threaten democratic integrity. Access to information on political financing is vital to prevent excessive, undisclosed, or illicit funding from distorting electoral competition.

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The increasing monetisation of Nigeria’s elections, alongside the potential misuse of state institutions, poses serious threats to democratic integrity and electoral competition. The information requested would enable citizens to identify excessive, undisclosed or potentially illicit political financing before it can distort electoral competition, rather than only after votes have been cast.