The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has explained why it fixed February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections and March 6, 2027, for governorship and state assembly polls.
This comes after former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticised the February 20 date, saying it falls during the Ramadan fasting period and shows “poor judgment” by the Commission.
In a statement on Friday, INEC said the dates were chosen based on existing laws and regulations. The Commission explained that elections are fixed for the third Saturday of February in a general election year, with governorship elections held two weeks later.
INEC quoted its guidelines, saying: “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.”
It added that it followed the law by fixing “Saturday, 20th February 2027 for the Presidential and National Assembly Elections and Saturday, 6th March 2027, for the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections.”
INEC, however, said it has taken note of concerns raised by stakeholders about the dates clashing with religious observances stressing that it is open to discussions and may seek changes if needed.
INEC assured Nigerians of credible polls, saying it remains committed to transparency and inclusive elections.
