Reps Reconvene Over 2027 Election Timetable

by Zainab Imam 

The House of Representatives will reconvene on Tuesday, February 17, for an emergency plenary to deliberate on electoral issues arising from the recently released timetable for the 2027 General Elections.

The decision follows the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which fixed the Presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, and the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections for March 6, 2027.

The emergency session was communicated to members through an internal memorandum from the Office of the Speaker, urging lawmakers to prioritise attendance in view of the constitutional significance of the matter.

Concerns have been raised within legislative and political circles over the proximity of the scheduled dates to major religious observances. Ramadan is projected to commence in early February 2027, while the Christian Lenten season is also expected to fall within the same period. Some lawmakers fear the overlap could affect voter participation and logistics.

Sources within the National Assembly indicate that discussions may include possible legislative adjustments to the Electoral Act, particularly provisions relating to the statutory notice period for elections. There are suggestions that the current 360-day requirement for publication of election notices could be reviewed to allow greater flexibility in fixing dates.

INEC has maintained that the timetable was released in compliance with constitutional and legal provisions. However, the Commission is said to be engaging the National Assembly on concerns raised, as both institutions weigh the legal and practical implications of any potential adjustments.

The outcome of Tuesday’s deliberation is expected to determine whether the legislature will pursue amendments or other interventions ahead of the 2027 polls.

Abuja Network News