INEC Releases Full Schedule For 2027 General Elections
Presidential, NASS Polls Hold February 20
THE Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has scheduled Nigeria’s next presidential and National Assembly elections for Saturday 20 February 2027, while governorship and state Assembly elections will follow on Saturday 6 March 2027.
INEC Chairman, Joash Amupitan, announced the timetable at a press conference in Abuja, stating that the commission acted in compliance with the 1999 Constitution and Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates the publication of election notices at least 360 days before polling day.
He explained that the tenure of the President, Vice-President, Governors and Deputy Governors—except in Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi and Ondo states—will expire on 28 May 2027, while the National and State Assemblies will be dissolved on 8 June 2027.
Citing constitutional provisions, he said elections must hold not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days before the expiration of current mandates.
Electoral Activities and Legal Framework
Amupitan reaffirmed that the authority to fix election dates rests solely with INEC, underscoring the commission’s constitutional independence. He directed Resident Electoral Commissioners, including that of the Federal Capital Territory, to publish notices in their respective constituencies.
According to him, political party primaries, submission of nomination forms and campaign activities will strictly follow the statutory timelines outlined in the published schedule. Campaigns are to end 24 hours before election day, in line with the law.
The 2027 general election will cover the offices of President and Vice President, Governors and Deputy Governors in eligible states, as well as members of the Senate, House of Representatives and State Houses of Assembly.
INEC disclosed that the detailed timetable has been uploaded to its website and shared with registered political parties and stakeholders to ensure transparency and early preparation.
Debate Over Electoral Amendments
The announcement comes amid ongoing deliberations at the National Assembly over amendments to the Electoral Act. INEC had earlier indicated that it would proceed with its timetable despite legislative delays but noted that adjustments may be required depending on the outcome of the amendment process.
Amupitan assured Nigerians that preparations, including continuous voter registration, party primaries, candidate nominations and deployment of election technology, would be completed ahead of the polls.
He said the timetable aligns with the commission’s long-term planning framework introduced under former chairman, Mahmood Yakubu, aimed at ensuring predictability and reducing logistical setbacks.
Political parties have urged lawmakers to expedite work on the amendment bill to avoid last-minute changes that could disrupt preparations.
INEC reiterated its commitment to conducting free, fair and credible elections in 2027.
