INEC to Realign 2027 Election Timeline with New Law

By 𝔸bdulrazak Tomiwa

The Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC is revising the 2027 election timetable to align with the new Electoral Act 2026.

This law reduces the mandatory notice period for elections from 360 to 300 days. Legal experts insist the previous schedule is now void and must be updated to prevent future court challenges.

The original February 2027 dates were criticized for clashing with Ramadan. The new 300-day window allows INEC to potentially move the polls to December 2026 or January 2027. This change would resolve religious conflicts while meeting the constitutional requirements for the transition of power.

Major political parties are demanding the immediate release of the new dates to organize their internal affairs. They require a clear roadmap to schedule congresses, conventions, and candidate primaries.

Party leaders emphasize that early notification is essential to avoid rushed deadlines and ensure a transparent process.

However, the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) opposes shifting the dates for religious reasons. They argue that as a secular state, Nigeria should prioritize civic duties over religious festivals.

The group warned that adjusting the calendar for faith-based reasons could weaken constitutional neutrality.

INEC confirmed that the revision is a top priority to ensure harmony with the 2026 Act. The commission aims to build public trust by providing a predictable and transparent electoral roadmap. While a specific date was not given, the release of the updated calendar is considered imminent.