By Enyichukwu Enemanna
Nigeria’s electoral body has fixed the country’s presidential election for February 20, 2027, while that of the governorship and State Houses of Assembly will take place March 6, 2027.
The chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) disclosed the electoral timetable during a news conference in Abuja on Friday.
Prof. Joash Amupitan’s announcement comes amid credibility concern by opposition and civil society organisations who have been demanding reforms that allow for electronic transmission of results.
“This action is taken pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which mandate the Commission to publish the Notice of Election not later than 360 days before the date appointed for the election,” he said.
He explained that the elections will cover the offices of President and Vice President, Governors and Deputy Governors (except in Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo, and Osun states), members of the Senate, House of Representatives, and State Houses of Assembly.
“In exercise of the powers conferred on the commission by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2022, and of all other powers enabling it in that behalf, the Commission hereby sets in motion the electoral process for the 2027 General Elections,” he added.
Amupitan said a detailed timetable and schedule of activities had been uploaded to INEC’s official website and circulated to political parties and stakeholders.
He said the early announcement demonstrates the commission’s commitment to ensuring that the electoral process is transparent, credible, and in strict adherence to the law.
Addressing concerns over the delay in passing the amended Electoral Act, he said, “We recognise the critical need for timely action to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of our electoral processes. It is imperative that the Commission acts swiftly to address any challenges arising from any delay that may result in logistical failure.”
On the pending Electoral Amendment Bill, Amupitan said, “While we are eager to adopt any amendments that may strengthen our electoral processes, we must act in accordance with the existing provisions of the Electoral Act.
“As an independent electoral body, we are committed to upholding the rule of law. The timely announcement of the election date is a critical step, allowing political parties, civil society organisations, and the electorate to prepare adequately.”
He explained that by virtue of the Constitution, the tenure of the President, Vice President, Governors and Deputy Governors, except those in Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo and Osun will expire on May 28, 2027, while membership of the National and State Assemblies will stand dissolved on June 8, 2027.
