The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has approved and released a revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 General Election, following recent changes to the nation’s electoral laws.
In a press statement issued on February 26, 2026, the Commission said the adjustment became necessary after the repeal of the Electoral Act, 2022 and the enactment of the Electoral Act, 2026, which introduced new statutory timelines for pre-election and electoral activities.
INEC had earlier scheduled the Presidential and National Assembly elections for Saturday, February 20, 2027, and the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections for Saturday, March 6, 2027.
However, under the revised timetable, the Presidential and National Assembly elections will now hold on Saturday, January 16, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections have been moved to Saturday, February 6, 2027.
According to the new schedule, party primaries, including the resolution of disputes arising from them, will commence on April 23, 2026, and conclude on May 30, 2026.
Campaigns for Presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly campaigns will start on September 9, 2026. INEC reiterated that all campaigns must end 24 hours before election day, in line with the law, warning that it will strictly enforce compliance with the stipulated timelines.
The Commission stated that the revised timetable has been published on its official website and other communication platforms.
Osun Governorship Election Rescheduled
INEC also announced the rescheduling of the Osun State Governorship Election from Saturday, August 8, 2026, to Saturday, August 15, 2026.
The Commission noted that some activities concerning the Ekiti and Osun governorship elections had already been conducted, but all outstanding processes would now strictly comply with the Electoral Act, 2026.
INEC emphasized that the revised dates align with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2026, and called on political parties, stakeholders, and citizens to cooperate in ensuring peaceful, credible, and inclusive elections.
