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INEC moves 2027 Presidential election to Saturday, January 16, 2027, marking a significant change in Nigeria’s electoral timetable ahead of the next general polls.
The Independent National Electoral Commission confirmed the adjustment following the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026, stating that the revised schedule ensures compliance with the new legal framework.
Why INEC Moves 2027 Presidential Election
According to the Commission, the decision to reschedule the presidential and National Assembly elections aligns with provisions of the amended Electoral Act.
Previously, the presidential election was scheduled for February 20, 2027. However, with the new development, INEC moves 2027 Presidential election nearly five weeks earlier to January 16, 2027.
Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections have also been shifted from March 6, 2027, to February 6, 2027.
INEC explained that the new timeline allows sufficient room for party primaries, campaigns, and administrative preparations.
Public Reaction and Ramadan Concerns
The earlier election dates had drawn criticism from sections of the public, particularly Muslim groups who expressed concerns that the proposed February and March dates could clash with the holy month of Ramadan.
While INEC did not directly reference religious concerns in its latest statement, the revised calendar addresses timing issues that had generated debate.
With this decision, INEC moves 2027 Presidential election into a January slot that avoids potential religious scheduling conflicts.
Electoral Act 2026 and Legal Compliance
INEC cited Clause 28 of the amended law, which mandates that the Commission must publish a notice of election not later than 300 days before the election date.
The Commission stated that its review and realignment of the timetable ensures full compliance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria 1999 as amended and the Electoral Act 2026.
The announcement was made in a statement signed by Mohammed Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee.
New Timetable for Primaries and Campaigns
Following the announcement that INEC moves 2027 Presidential election, the Commission also released updated timelines for political activities.
Party primaries, including dispute resolution processes, will begin on April 23, 2026, and conclude on May 30, 2026.
Campaigns for Presidential and National Assembly elections will commence on August 19, 2026.
Campaigns for Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will begin on September 9, 2026.
INEC emphasised that all campaigns must end 24 hours before Election Day in accordance with the law. Political parties are expected to comply strictly with these regulations.
Changes to Osun Governorship Election
In addition to the nationwide adjustment, INEC announced that the Osun State Governorship election has been rescheduled from August 8, 2026, to August 15, 2026.
The Commission clarified that while certain processes for Ekiti and Osun governorship elections have already been completed, all remaining activities will proceed strictly under the Electoral Act 2026.
What This Means for 2027
As INEC moves 2027 Presidential election to January 16, political parties and stakeholders must now realign their strategies to fit within the revised framework.
The Commission described the successful conduct of the elections as a collective responsibility, calling on stakeholders to cooperate in ensuring peaceful, credible, and inclusive polls.
Observers note that the earlier election date may intensify political activities in 2026 as parties accelerate preparations.
With Nigeria preparing for another transition cycle, the revised timetable sets the stage for what is expected to be a highly competitive 2027 general election.
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