The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced plans to release a revised timetable for the 2027 general elections, following the passage of the Electoral Act 2026.
Mr. Adedayo Oketola, Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, told Sunday PUNCH that the commission is reviewing the law to ensure full compliance. While a specific release date was not provided, Oketola stressed that INEC is committed to operating within the legal framework.
Political parties have demanded an updated timetable to organize primaries and other internal activities ahead of the polls. The current schedule sets the presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, with governorship and state assembly polls on March 6, 2027. Critics, particularly Muslim groups, noted clashes with Ramadan.
The Electoral Act 2026 reduces the mandatory notice period from 360 to 300 days, giving INEC flexibility to hold presidential and National Assembly elections between late December 2026 and January 2027. Legal experts insist a revised timetable is mandatory.
Senior Advocate of Nigeria (SAN) Femi Falana said, “Once a new law comes into force, it supersedes prior frameworks. INEC cannot legally operate on a timetable anchored to a repealed statute.” Lawyers warned that ignoring the change could trigger pre-election litigation.
Political parties, including the African Democratic Congress and New Nigeria Peoples Party, urged INEC to act swiftly to allow adequate time for primaries, candidate submissions, and conventions. The Peoples Democratic Party also emphasized alignment with the 2026 Electoral Act.
Meanwhile, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria cautioned against altering election dates on religious grounds, highlighting the need to maintain Nigeria’s secular status and ensure elections remain civic exercises.
Oketola confirmed that INEC is reviewing the new law and anticipates issuing a revised timetable soon, ensuring compliance and clarity for all stakeholders ahead of the 2027 elections.
