INEC Nigeria Explains Why 2027 General Election Dates Clash With Public Holidays

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Nigeria,  has addressed public concerns arising from the recently released Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election, particularly regarding the dates fixed for the conduct of elections.

In a statement, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner, Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, said the Commission recalls that the Timetable was developed in strict compliance with the Timelines contained in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, and the INEC Guidelines and Regulations for the Conduct of Elections, 2022.

The INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, made since 2019, fixed the dates elections are to be held. Paragraph 2 of the Regulation provides:

“Election to the office of President and Vice President, as well as National Assembly, shall hold on the Third Saturday of February of any General Election year, while election to the Office of Governor and Deputy Governor and the State Houses of Assembly shall hold two (2) weeks thereafter.”

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Why INEC Nigeria Selected Election Dates

Haruna said accordingly, and in faithful observance of these extant legal and regulatory provisions, the Commission fixed Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly Elections and Saturday, March 6,  2027, for the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections.

Notwithstanding the foregoing, he said the Commission has taken due notice of concerns expressed by stakeholders regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognised holidays and observances.

Also Read: Nigeria’s Electoral Commission Clarifies Releasing Timetable for 2027 Election

Addressing Concerns Raised

The Commission assured the public that it remains sensitive to all legitimate concerns that may impact electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections.

INEC is currently undertaking consultations and may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the concerns raised, while ensuring that any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements.

The Commission has reiterated its unwavering commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of the 2027 General Election. The public will be duly informed of any further developments.

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President Tinubu during a meeting atTICAD 9 in Nigeria
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