The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has addressed public concerns following the release of its Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election, particularly regarding the dates fixed for the conduct of the elections.
The Commission stated that the timetable was developed in strict compliance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, and the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections (2022).
According to INEC, its Regulations and Guidelines—made since 2019—clearly stipulate when general elections are to be held. Paragraph 2 provides that:
“Election to the office of President and Vice President, as well as National Assembly, shall hold on the Third Saturday of February of any General Election year, while election to the Office of Governor and Deputy Governor and the State Houses of Assembly shall hold two (2) weeks thereafter.”
In line with these legal and regulatory provisions, the Commission fixed:
- Saturday, February 20, 2027 –
Presidential and National Assembly Elections - Saturday, March 6, 2027 – Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections
INEC, however, acknowledged concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognised holidays and observances.
The Commission assured the public that it remains sensitive to legitimate concerns that may affect electoral participation and the overall conduct of the elections.
It disclosed that consultations are ongoing and that it may seek appropriate legislative intervention where necessary, provided any adjustments remain consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of the 2027 General Election, pledging to keep the public informed of further developments.
Signed:
Mohammed Kudu Haruna
National Commissioner & Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee
Read Official Statement:
𝗙𝗼𝗹𝗹𝗼𝘄 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗪𝗵𝗮𝘁𝘀𝗔𝗽𝗽 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗻𝗻𝗲𝗹 𝗧𝗼 𝗚𝗲𝘁 𝗟𝗮𝘁𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗡𝗲𝘄𝘀 𝗔𝘀 𝗜𝘁'𝘀 𝗗𝗿𝗼𝗽!
