INEC Revises 2027 Election Timetable, Shifts Presidential Poll to January 16; Osun Governorship Rescheduled
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced a major revision to the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Election, bringing forward key election dates and adjusting statutory timelines in compliance with the newly enacted Electoral Act, 2026.
In a press release issued at its headquarters in Abuja on February 26, 2026, the Commission disclosed that the Presidential and National Assembly Elections will now hold on Saturday, January 16, 2027, instead of the earlier scheduled February date. Similarly, the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections have been rescheduled to Saturday, February 6, 2027.
INEC explained that the revision followed the repeal of the Electoral Act, 2022 and the enactment of the Electoral Act, 2026, which introduced adjustments to statutory timelines governing pre-election and electoral activities. The Commission noted that the realignment ensures full compliance with the new legal framework and the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria (1999, as amended).
According to the updated timetable:
Party primaries, including the resolution of disputes arising therefrom, will commence on April 23, 2026 and conclude on May 30, 2026.
Presidential and National Assembly campaigns will begin on August 19, 2026.
Governorship and State Houses of Assembly campaigns will commence on September 9, 2026.
INEC reiterated that campaigns must end 24 hours before Election Day, warning political parties to strictly adhere to the approved timelines as the Commission will enforce compliance.
In a related development, the Governorship Election in Osun State, earlier fixed for Saturday, August 8, 2026, has now been rescheduled to Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The Commission further clarified that while some electoral activities concerning both Ekiti and Osun governorship elections have already been conducted, all outstanding processes will proceed strictly in accordance with the Electoral Act, 2026.
INEC emphasized that the successful conduct of the forthcoming elections remains a collective responsibility. The Commission called on political parties, candidates, civil society organisations, and the electorate to cooperate in ensuring peaceful, credible, and inclusive polls that reflect the sovereign will of the Nigerian people.
The statement was signed by Malam Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee.
BSTV News reports that the revised timetable is now accessible via the Commission’s official communication platforms.