Femi-Falana-SAN
Femi Falana, a Senior Advocate of Nigeria and human rights lawyer, has condemned the ongoing campaigns for the 2027 general elections as “totally illegal” and “diversionary”. According to him, these premature campaigns violate the Electoral Act of 2022, which prescribes specific timelines for election activities. The Act clearly states that campaigning should commence 150 days before polling day and end 24 hours prior to that day.
Falana argues that the current campaigns distract from the government’s focus on policy execution and service delivery, particularly in addressing pressing issues that affect the lives of Nigerians. He emphasizes the need for politicians to present solutions to the country’s electricity crisis, which has persisted for years, rather than engaging in early campaigns that serve no purpose other than to divert attention from the real issues.
The crisis in the education system is another area that requires urgent attention, and Falana highlights the importance of addressing this problem. He stresses that politicians should focus on providing solutions to these issues rather than seeking power through premature campaigns. The state of infrastructure, including bad roads, is also a major concern that needs to be addressed.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has also cautioned political parties against early campaigns, stating that such actions are not only inappropriate but also a gross violation of the Electoral Act. Falana’s stance is that politicians should focus on governance and addressing the country’s problems rather than engaging in premature campaigning.
He urges INEC to enforce compliance with the law and calls on the media to help Nigeria by taking politicians out of the cocoon of ethnicity, religion, and other primordial considerations during campaigns. According to Falana, this approach will help to promote a more focused and issue-driven campaign that prioritizes the needs and welfare of Nigerians.
Falana’s position on the matter underscores the need for politicians to prioritize governance and service delivery over campaigning. By focusing on the real issues that affect the country, politicians can demonstrate their commitment to serving the people and addressing the challenges that Nigeria faces. This approach will help to promote a more responsible and responsive government that prioritizes the needs of its citizens.
