INEC Sets 2027 Election Dates Amid Consultations Over Ramadan Clash

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially set February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections, with governorship and state assembly polls scheduled for March 6, 2027. The announcement, made by INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan during a briefing in Abuja, marks the formal commencement of the 2027 general election process in line with Nigeria’s constitutional and legal provisions.

According to Prof. Amupitan, the tenures of the President, Vice President, Governors, and Deputy Governors—excluding officeholders in Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo, and Osun states—will expire on May 28, 2027, while the National and State Assemblies dissolve on June 8, 2027. He emphasized that the timetable is developed in strict compliance with Sections 76(2), 116(2), 132(2), and 178(2) of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), which mandates elections to be conducted not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days before the expiration of the term of office.

The Commission has outlined key milestones for political parties and candidates. Party registers must be submitted between April 22 and May 21, 2026, ahead of primaries scheduled from May 22 to June 20. Nomination forms for presidential and National Assembly candidates will be accepted from July 14 to July 28, while governorship and state assembly aspirants can submit between August 11 and August 25. INEC plans to publish candidates’ personal details (Form EC9) on August 4 for national elections and September 1 for state-level contests. Campaigns for presidential and National Assembly elections are set to commence on September 23, with state-level campaigns beginning on October 7. Campaigning will end 24 hours before each election.

Other important dates include the publication of the official voter register on January 11, 2027, the notice of poll on January 21, 2027, and the submission of polling agents’ names by December 22, 2026, for national elections and January 5, 2027, for state elections. Prof. Amupitan confirmed that the timetable and schedule of activities have been uploaded to INEC’s official website and shared with all registered political parties.

While affirming the legal basis for these dates, INEC acknowledged concerns that the elections may coincide with the Ramadan fasting period. The Commission, in a statement on February 14, 2026, said it was consulting with stakeholders and may seek legislative intervention if necessary, ensuring any adjustments remain consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements.

Highlighting INEC’s preparedness, Prof. Amupitan said the Commission is focused on expanding technology use, updating the voter register, collaborating with security agencies, and intensifying voter education. He urged political actors and citizens alike to ensure peaceful conduct throughout the electoral process, stressing that “the success of the 2027 General Elections is a collective responsibility.”

This timetable sets the stage for a highly structured electoral year, emphasizing transparency, credibility, and adherence to Nigeria’s electoral laws while remaining responsive to public concerns.