The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, has announced that Nigeria’s 2027 General Elections will be held on February 20 and March 6, 2027.
At a press briefing in Abuja on Friday, the INEC Chairman confirmed that the Commission has officially issued the Notice of Election alongside the comprehensive Timetable and Schedule of Activities, in compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.
He explained that the action was taken pursuant to the powers granted to the Commission under the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2022.
According to him, elections into the offices of the President and members of the National Assembly will take place on February 20, 2027, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are slated for March 6, 2027, he said.
He described the announcement as a critical step in the nation’s democratic process.
He said the Commission remains mindful of its constitutional mandate and unwavering in its commitment to democratic consolidation.
According to him, the clarification became necessary due to the widespread speculation regarding the election timetable.
He warned against the spread of unofficial information, emphasizing that only INEC possesses the constitutional authority to determine election dates.
“For some time, there have been speculations, with certain individuals even assuming the role of the Commission by circulating unofficial election dates. This is misleading. The authority to fix election dates rests exclusively with INEC,” he said.
He further referenced Sections 76(2), 116(2), 132(2) and 178(2) of the Constitution, noting that elections must be conducted not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days before the expiration of the tenure of the current office holders.
He added that the tenure of the President, Vice President and most state Governors will end on May 28, 2027, while that of the National and State Assemblies will conclude on June 8, 2027.
He also cited Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which mandates the Commission to publish the Notice of Election at least 360 days beforePp the scheduled date.
Amupitan disclosed that the detailed election timetable has been uploaded to INEC’s official website and distributed to all registered political parties and key stakeholders.
He directed Resident Electoral Commissioners nationwide, including the Federal Capital Territory, to ensure the Notice is publicly displayed within their respective jurisdictions.
He stressed that political parties must conduct their nomination processes strictly within the timelines provided in the schedule, while submission of nomination forms must adhere to the specified window.
He further reminded them that election campaigns are to commence and conclude in accordance with legal provisions, ending 24 hours before polling day.
On the ongoing review of the Electoral Act, 2022 by the National Assembly, the INEC Chairman said the Commission is closely observing legislative developments and remains open to reforms that could strengthen the electoral system.
“While we look forward to improvements that enhance our electoral framework, we must operate within the existing legal structure.
As an independent electoral body, our actions are guided by the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and our Regulations and Guidelines,” he stated.
He reassured Nigerians of the Commission’s dedication to conducting credible and transparent elections, noting that efforts are underway to expand the deployment of technology, continuously update the National Register of Voters, deepen collaboration with security agencies, and intensify voter education initiatives.
Amupitan cautioned political parties to comply strictly with the electoral timetable, warning that the Commission would enforce the law where necessary.
He urged parties to organise peaceful and transparent primaries, avoid inflammatory rhetoric, and uphold democratic values, stressing that the integrity of the 2027 elections depends on collective responsibility.
The INEC Chairman also appealed to candidates, their supporters, and the general public to maintain peace throughout the electoral cycle.
“As we begin this national assignment, I assure Nigerians that the Commission is fully prepared and resolute in delivering elections that truly reflect the will of the people,” he said.