- Presidential, NASS Elections To Hold January 16, Governorship, House Of Assembly Feb 6
- Reschedules Osun Governorship Poll
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a major adjustment to the timetable for the 2027 general elections, citing the enactment of the new Electoral Act 2026.
Under the revised schedule, the Presidential and National Assembly elections will now hold on Saturday, January 16, 2027, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are slated for Saturday, February 6, 2027.
This marks a significant shift from the earlier dates of February 20 and March 6, 2027, respectively.
Originally, the Presidential and National Assembly elections were scheduled for February 20, 2027, and the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections for March 6, 2027.
However, the changes is coming on the heels of the outrage that greeted the former dates following the clashes with Ramadan and Lent.
Major opposition figures had lambasted the Electoral umpire of not getting a basic issue as timing right.
Following the release of the new dates, INEC explained that the changes were necessary to align with statutory timelines introduced by the new Electoral Act.
The Commission emphasized that the revised timetable ensures full compliance with Nigeria’s legal framework and constitutional provisions.
Key Timelines
- Party Primaries: April 23 – May 30, 2026
- Presidential/National Assembly Campaigns: Begin August 19, 2026
- Governorship/State Assembly Campaigns: Begin September 9, 2026
- Campaigns End: 24 hours before election day
INEC warned political parties to strictly adhere to the timelines, stressing that it will enforce compliance with the law.
In addition, the Commission rescheduled the Osun State Governorship Election from August 8 to August 15, 2026, noting that while some activities for the Ekiti and Osun polls have already been conducted, remaining processes will now follow the provisions of the Electoral Act 2026.
National Commissioner and Chairman of INEC’s Information and Voter Education Committee, Malam Mohammed Kudu Haruna, said the adjustments are consistent with the Constitution and reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to credible, inclusive, and peaceful elections.
“The successful conduct of the forthcoming elections remains a collective responsibility,” Haruna stated, urging stakeholders to cooperate in safeguarding Nigeria’s democratic process.
