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By Gabriel Ameh
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has 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 dates were announced on Friday at a press conference held at the Commission’s headquarters in Abuja, where INEC Chairman, Joash Ojo Amupitan, unveiled the full timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections in line with constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act 2022.
Amupitan said the early release of the timetable underscores the Commission’s commitment to transparency, predictability, and strict adherence to the law.
According to him, publishing the electoral calendar well ahead of the polls will allow political parties, candidates, security agencies, civil society organisations, and voters to prepare adequately.
“The release of the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections is in fulfilment of constitutional requirements and the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022,” he said. “This is part of our resolve to deepen electoral certainty and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic process.”
INEC explained that the February 20 poll will cover the election of the President and Vice President, as well as members of the National Assembly Senators and members of the House of Representatives.
Two weeks later, on March 6, voters across the states will elect Governors and members of the State Houses of Assembly.
The Chairman noted that the comprehensive timetable captures critical milestones, including party primaries, submission of nomination forms, publication of candidates’ lists, commencement of campaigns, and deadlines for withdrawal or substitution of candidates as permitted by law.
He urged political parties to strictly comply with the legal timelines and internal democratic processes outlined in the Electoral Act, warning that the Commission will enforce compliance where necessary.
Amupitan added that adherence to the timetable is essential for ensuring a level playing field and avoiding last-minute disruptions to the electoral process.
He also assured Nigerians that INEC has commenced early logistical planning and inter-agency consultations to improve on past elections, reaffirming the Commission’s commitment to credible, transparent, and technology-driven polls in 2027.
The INEC Chairman called on citizens to remain actively engaged in the democratic process, participate in voter registration, collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) when due, and resist misinformation capable of undermining trust in the electoral system.
