INEC Considers 2027 Elections Timetable Review Over Ramadan

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is considering a review of the 2027 elections timetable following concerns about the scheduled dates coinciding with the Ramadan fasting period. A statement issued on February 14, 2026, noted that the electoral body acknowledged the concerns raised by stakeholders regarding the timing of the polls, particularly in alignment with national religious observances.

INEC had previously scheduled the presidential and national assembly elections for Saturday, February 20, 2027, and the governorship and state house assembly elections for Saturday, March 6, 2027. The commission explained that the timetable was developed in strict compliance with the 1999 Constitution and the amended Electoral Act of 2022, which requires elections to be held on the third Saturday of February in general election years.

Despite defending the legal basis for the dates, INEC remains sensitive to concerns that may affect voter participation. Additionally, INEC informed the National Assembly that it requires N873.78 billion to conduct the 2027 general elections, which represents a significant increase from the N313.4 billion released by the federal government for the 2023 general elections.