The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has clarified the dates fixed for the conduct of the 2027 General Election, reaffirming that the timetable was developed in strict compliance with constitutional and statutory provisions.
In a statement issued by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, the Commission said the timetable aligns with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2022, and the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, 2022.
The Commission recalled that its Regulations and Guidelines, in place since 2019, clearly stipulate when general elections are to be held. According to Paragraph 2 of the Regulations, elections to the offices of President and Vice President, as well as the National Assembly, shall hold on the third Saturday of February in any general election year. Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are to take place two weeks later.
In line with these provisions, INEC fixed Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections.
However, the Commission acknowledged concerns raised by stakeholders over the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognised holidays and observances.
INEC assured the public that it remains sensitive to legitimate concerns that could affect voter participation and the overall conduct of the elections. It added that consultations are ongoing and that, where necessary, it may seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the issues, while ensuring compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.
The Commission reiterated its commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of the 2027 General Election, promising to keep the public informed of any further developments.
