INEC has announced 2027 presidential election date and released full timetable.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has officially announced the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, dismissed earlier reports suggesting that the Commission had already released the election timetable, clarifying that the official notice is being formally issued in accordance with constitutional provisions.
According to him, Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on February 20, 2027, while Governorship and State House of Assembly elections are scheduled for March 6, 2027.
Amupitan described the release of the timetable as a major milestone in Nigeria’s democratic process.
“Today, we formally release the notice of election and the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Elections,” he said.
He noted that speculation had trailed the process in recent months, with some individuals allegedly announcing unofficial dates.
“We recognize the critical need for timely action to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of our electoral process. It is imperative that the Commission acts swiftly to prevent logistical challenges that may arise from any delay,” he stated.
Constitutional Backing
The INEC Chairman explained that the decision aligns with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2022.
He noted that the tenure of the President, Vice President, governors and deputy governors—except those in Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo, and Osun states—will expire on May 28, 2027.
Under constitutional provisions, elections to those offices must be conducted not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days before the expiration of their tenure.
He further cited Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates INEC to publish a notice of election not less than 360 days before the election date.
Offices to Be Contested
The 2027 general elections will be conducted nationwide for the following positions:
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President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria
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Governors and Deputy Governors (except in off-cycle states)
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Members of the Senate
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Members of the House of Representatives
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Members of State Houses of Assembly
By formally issuing the notice, INEC has now officially set the electoral process in motion ahead of the 2027 general elections.
