The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), says it is eager to adopt any amendments that may strengthen electoral processes ahead of 2027 elections.
The commission has also fixed February 20, 2027 for the presidential election and National Assembly elections.
INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan disclosed this while addressing a press conference on Friday in Abuja, where he announced the notice of election and the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general election.
He noted that the 2027 general election would hold nationwide for the following offices: President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria;
Governors and Deputy Governors of the States of the Federation (except Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo, and Osun States); members of the Senate; members of the House of Representatives; and members of the State Houses of Assembly.
Amupitan added that pursuant to Sections 76(2), 116 (2), 132 (2) and 178 (2) of the 1999 Constitution, elections to the said offices shall hold not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days before the expiration of the term of office of` the last holder of that office.
He pointed out that this action was taken pursuant to the provisions of the 1999 Constitution as amended and section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which mandates the Commission to publish the notice of election not later than 360 days before the date appointed for the election.
Amupitan stated: “In exercise of the powers conferred on the Commission by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2022 and of all other powers enabling it in that behalf, the Commission hereby sets in motion the electoral process for the 2027 general election and fixes the date for the 2027 general election as follows:
“Presidential and National Assembly- 20th February 2027; Governorship and State Houses of Assembly – 6th March 2027
Amupitan acknowledged that the current Electoral Amendment Bill that is pending before the National Assembly, adding that the bill has sparked important discussions and concerns among various stakeholders.
He said the commission recognised the necessity of enhancing the electoral framework to ensure that it meets the ever-evolving needs of the society and reflects aspirations for free, fair, and credible elections.
Amupitan stated: “As an independent electoral body, we are committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that our actions are guided by the established legal framework.
“The timely announcement of the election date is a critical step in this process, allowing our stakeholders—political parties, civil society organisations, and the electorate—to prepare adequately for the elections.”
The commission however urged political parties to strictly adhere to the timelines, saying the Commission would not hesitate to enforce compliance with the law.
He also called on political parties to conduct peaceful and credible primaries, shun violence and inflammatory rhetoric, and to uphold internal democracy.