INEC moves 2027 presidential election to Jan 16

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has revised the timetable for the 2027 general elections, shifting the presidential and National Assembly polls to January 16, 2027.

The elections were previously scheduled for February 20, 2027, but the commission said the change follows the new Electoral Act, 2026, which introduced updated timelines for election activities.

Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections will now take place on February 6, 2027, instead of the earlier March date.

New law forces timetable adjustment

INEC said the revised schedule aligns with the Electoral Act, 2026, which replaced the Electoral Act, 2022, and introduced new deadlines for party primaries and campaigns.

Party primaries will begin on April 23, 2026, and end on May 30, 2026. Campaigns for presidential and National Assembly candidates will start on August 19, 2026, while governorship and state assembly campaigns will begin on September 9, 2026.

The commission said political parties must follow the new timetable strictly, adding that all campaigns must end 24 hours before election day.

Earlier date aims to improve participation

INEC had earlier indicated it might adjust the election dates after concerns that the original schedule would fall during Ramadan, which could affect voter turnout.

The commission also announced that the governorship election in Osun State will now hold on August 15, 2026.

INEC said the revised timetable is consistent with the Constitution and called on political parties and voters to support peaceful and credible elections across the country.

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