INEC Schedules Presidential Election for January 16, 2027

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced an amendment to the election timetable, setting the presidential election for January 16, 2027. This decision was communicated by INEC Chairman Mohammed Haruna in a statement issued on Thursday in Abuja.

The governorship and state house assembly elections are scheduled for February 6, 2027, while the National Assembly elections will take place on February 20, 2027, and the governorship state house assembly polls on March 6, 2027. The timing has triggered backlash, particularly as it coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, which is expected to commence on February 8, 2027, and end around March 10, 2027, according to the Islamic calendar.

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticized the scheduling, emphasizing the need for maximum participation during this spiritual period. INEC's decision follows the enactment of the new Electoral Act 2026, which was recently assented to by President Bola Tinubu.

INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan noted that the revised timetable was necessary to comply with the new legal framework governing elections in Nigeria.