The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has confirmed it will issue a revised timetable for the 2027 general elections following amendments introduced in the Electoral Act 2026.
INEC’s Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the Chairman, Mr. Adedayo Oketola, disclosed that the commission is reviewing the new law to ensure full compliance. Although he did not state a specific date for the release, he emphasized that INEC is committed to operating strictly within the framework of the law.
Why a New Timetable Is Necessary
The controversy stems from recent changes made by the National Assembly, which amended the Electoral Act and reduced the mandatory notice period for elections from 360 days to 300 days.
Under the revised Clause 28, INEC must publish election notices not later than 300 days before the election date, rather than 360 days as previously required.
Legal experts argue that:
Once a new law comes into force, it overrides previous provisions.
Election timetables are legal instruments derived directly from the Electoral Act.
Any timetable based on the repealed provisions could face legal challenges in court.
A Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, stated that issuing a revised timetable is not optional but mandatory under the amended law.
Initial Dates Announced by INEC
Before the amendment, INEC had scheduled:
Presidential and National Assembly elections: February 20, 2027
Governorship and State Assembly elections: March 6, 2027
However, the new 300-day notice requirement may shift the election window, potentially allowing the presidential and National Assembly polls to hold between late December 2026 and January 2027.
Public Reactions
The initial February 2027 date drew criticism from some Muslim groups who noted that it coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, raising concerns about voter participation.
Political parties have also called for clarity, stating that they need an updated timetable to properly organize primaries and candidate submissions.
What Happens Next?
INEC is expected to:
Review all timelines to align with the 300-day requirement.
Adjust party primary schedules.
Issue an official revised election timetable.
The commission has reassured stakeholders that it will act in accordance with the law to avoid constitutional or legal disputes ahead of the 2027 polls.
