INEC announces timetable for 2027 General Election

Nigeria’s Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general election.

During a press conference in Abuja on Friday, INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan confirmed the dates, putting an end to widespread speculation. He criticized earlier unauthorized reports that had circulated, suggesting the electoral body had already published a schedule.

Amupitan emphasized that the announcement complies with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution and the Electoral Act of 2022. He detailed that the Presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for February 20, 2027, while the Governorship and State Assembly elections will take place on March 6, 2027.

“Today we formally release the notice of election and the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections, a significant milestone in our democratic journey,” the INEC chairman stated.

He addressed the premature announcements from other sources, saying, “You will recall that for some time now, there have been speculations and some people have even taken over the role of INEC by announcing their own date and schedule of activities for 2027.”

Amupitan stressed the importance of timely planning to maintain the integrity of the electoral process. “We recognize the critical need for timely action to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of our electoral process,” he said. “It is imperative that the Commission act swiftly to address any challenge arising from any delay that may result in logistical failure.”

The chairman explained the constitutional basis for the timeline, noting that the tenures of the President, Vice President, and most state governors will expire on May 28, 2027. Elections must be held no earlier than 150 days and no later than 30 days before this date.

He clarified that the states of Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo, and Osun are exceptions due to their off-cycle election schedules.

“This action we are taking today is pursuant to the provisions of the constitution of Nigeria, and in particular section 28, subsection one of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates the commission to publish the notice of election not less than 360 days before the date appointed for the election,” Amupitan concluded.