Supporters Defy Tinubu’s Order, Flood Abuja with 2027 Campaign Posters

Despite President Bola Tinubu’s clear directive suspending early 2027 campaign activities, fresh billboards and posters advocating for his re-election have appeared across Abuja. This development comes just 10 days after the president urged his supporters to halt all promotional efforts pending official approval from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The campaign materials, prominently displayed in high-traffic areas such as Airport Road and the Central Business District, have sparked questions about the commitment of Tinubu’s backers to the electoral process. Some of the billboards carry motivational messages urging citizens to join the “PBAT Door-to-Door Movement,” while others bear slogans like “Step Up, Speak Out, Support Tinubu” and “Your Voice Matters.” One striking display even features the president alongside ex-militant leader Government Ekpemupolo (Tompolo), identified as a Grand Patron of the movement.

Although President Tinubu has not formally declared his intention to run in 2027, the early displays mirror past patterns where incumbents began signaling their re-election intentions deep into their third year in office. Former Presidents Muhammadu Buhari and Goodluck Jonathan both followed that timeline, making the current push seem premature.

Presidential spokesperson Bayo Onanuga had previously issued a warning on April 13, reiterating that President Tinubu had not authorized any form of campaign, and emphasized that such actions could violate INEC’s regulations. He urged individuals and groups behind the billboards to immediately cease their activities, highlighting the risk of compromising the integrity of the electoral process.

Despite this, there appears to be little to no enforcement action. The Department of Outdoor Advertisement and Signage (DOAS), the agency responsible for regulating billboards in Abuja, has remained silent. Calls and messages to both DOAS officials and Mr. Onanuga went unanswered.