Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained the legal basis for the dates fixed for the 2027 General Election, amid growing public concerns over the coincidence of the polls with nationally recognised holidays and observances.
In a press statement posted on its official X handle, INEC said the recently released Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 elections were drawn up in strict compliance with existing constitutional, legal and regulatory frameworks guiding Nigeria’s electoral process.
The statement was signed by Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
The Commission recalled that the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, the Electoral Act 2022, as well as its Guidelines and Regulations for the Conduct of Elections, clearly stipulate timelines for the conduct of general elections.
According to INEC, its Regulations and Guidelines, which have been in force since 2019, expressly fix election dates.
The Commission quoted Paragraph 2 of the Regulations, which provides that elections into the offices of President and Vice President, alongside National Assembly elections, shall be held on the third Saturday of February in any general election year. Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections, the guideline further states, are to follow two weeks later.
“Consequently, and in faithful observance of these extant legal and regulatory provisions, the Commission fixed Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections,” the statement explained.
However, INEC acknowledged concerns raised by various stakeholders over the overlap of the proposed election dates with some nationally recognised holidays and religious observances.
The Commission assured Nigerians that it remains attentive to issues that could affect voter participation and the smooth conduct of the polls.
In response to these concerns, INEC disclosed that it has commenced consultations with relevant stakeholders and may, if deemed necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the issues raised, while still operating within constitutional and statutory limits.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, inclusivity and the delivery of a credible 2027 General Election, assuring the public that any further decisions or adjustments would be clearly communicated.
