The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has welcomed the release of the 2027 general election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), describing it as a positive step toward early democratic preparation.
However, the opposition party stressed that the credibility of the 2027 elections will depend largely on the transparent and real-time electronic transmission of results.
In a statement issued Friday, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said while the early announcement provides clarity for political parties and stakeholders, the real test of credibility lies in transparent procedures and technological integrity.
INEC 2027 Election Timetable Highlights
INEC has scheduled party primaries between May 22 and June 20, 2026, for the nomination of candidates.
According to the commission:
Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on February 20, 2027
Governorship and State Assembly elections are fixed for March 6, 2027
The ADC acknowledged that the early timetable gives political actors and voters ample time for long-term planning and democratic engagement.
Real-Time Electronic Transmission of Results a Major Concern
Despite its commendation, the party warned that releasing a timetable alone does not guarantee credible elections.
“The credibility of the 2027 general elections will not be judged solely by the timeliness of the timetable,” the statement noted. “It will depend on INEC’s demonstrable commitment to transparency, technological integrity, and strict adherence to due process.”
The ADC emphasized the importance of real-time electronic transmission of results, arguing that ambiguities in the current Electoral Act leave room for discretionary interpretation in critical areas that directly impact public confidence.
Call for Electoral Act Amendment
The party urged the National Assembly to urgently enact binding legislation that clearly mandates electronic transmission of election results.
It also called on INEC to provide Nigerians with early and clear assurances about its readiness to fully deploy real-time technology if the necessary legal amendments are passed.
Beyond electronic transmission, the ADC asked the electoral body to outline both manual and technological safeguards that will prevent manipulation and irregularities in the 2027 general elections.
Strengthening Public Trust Ahead of 2027
The party concluded by noting that Nigerians have consistently demonstrated their willingness to defend the sanctity of their votes. It urged INEC to match that civic vigilance with institutional transparency, operational clarity, and administrative excellence.
With the 2027 elections drawing closer, debates over electoral reforms, real-time results transmission, and Electoral Act amendments are expected to shape Nigeria’s political landscape in the months ahead.
