2027: ARCON cautions political parties against abusive campaigns

The Advertising Regulatory Council of Nigeria (ARCON) has warned political parties and their candidates against using advertisements to promote ethnic hatred, religious intolerance and false claims ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The council gave the warning at a Political Advertising Forum in Lagos, where stakeholders discussed measures to ensure that campaign advertisements comply with existing laws and professional standards.
ARCON Director-General, Dr Olalekan Fadolapo, said political advertisements must be vetted and approved before publication or broadcast.
He warned politicians against using campaign materials to incite division, spread misinformation or attack individuals.
The forum also called for greater accountability among media organisations, billboard operators, social media influencers and political leaders involved in producing or disseminating campaign advertisements.
Delivering the keynote address, Charles Odenigbo said all parties involved in political advertising should be held responsible for violations of the rules governing the practice.
Participants also highlighted the need for stricter oversight of digital campaigns, including fact-checking political claims and ensuring the responsible use of artificial intelligence-generated content.
Representatives at the event pledged to comply with the regulations, while advertising practitioners called for a level playing field for political actors.
The discussions come as political activities gradually gather momentum ahead of the 2027 elections, with parties expected to intensify their use of television, radio, billboards and social media to reach voters.
ARCON said the forum was aimed at promoting truthful, lawful and responsible political advertising throughout the election period.