Amupitan’s full speech as INEC releases timetable for 2027 presidential, governorship elections

The Honourable Commissioners
Honourable Secretary of INEC,
Leaders of Political Parties,
Civil Society Organisations
Directors
Technical Aides to the Chairman
Ladies and gentlemen of the press,
Esteemed stakeholders,
Distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

1. It is with a deep sense of constitutional responsibility and commitment to democratic consolidation that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) today, 13th February 2026, formally releases the Notice of Election and the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Elections- a significant milestone in our democratic journey.
   You will recall that for some time now, this has been a subject of speculation, and some people have even taken over the role of INEC by announcing their own date and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election. This was sharply countered by INEC as it was greatly misleading and orchestrated by detractors.
2. At the Stakeholders’ meetings, which were held last week, I informed participants that the Commission was watching, with keen interest, the ongoing amendment of the Electoral Act, 2022, at the National Assembly. We recognise the critical need for timely action to ensure the integrity and effectiveness of our electoral processes. It is imperative that the Commission acts swiftly to address any challenges arising from any delay that may result in logistical failure.
3. By virtue of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), tenure of the President, Vice President, Governors and Deputy Governors of States of the Federation (except Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo, and Osun States) will expire on the 28th day of May, 2027 while membership of the National and State Assemblies will stand dissolved on the 8th day of June, 2027.
   Pursuant to Sections 76(2), 116 (2), 132 (2) and 178 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), elections to the said offices shall hold not earlier than One Hundred and Fifty (150) days and not later than Thirty (30) days before the expiration of the term of office of` the last holder of that office.
4. This action is taken pursuant to the provisions of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which mandate the Commission to publish the Notice of Election not later than 360 days before the date appointed for the election.
   The 2027 General Elections will hold nationwide for the following offices:
   President and Vice President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria;
   Governors and Deputy Governors of the States of the Federation (except Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo, and Osun States);
   Members of the Senate;
   Members of the House of Representatives; and
   Members of the State Houses of Assembly.
5. In exercise of the powers conferred on the Commission by the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended) and the Electoral Act, 2022 and of all other powers enabling it in that behalf, the Commission hereby sets in motion the electoral process for the 2027 General Elections and fixes the date for the 2027 General Elections as follows:
   Presidential & National Assembly- 20th February 2027
   Governorship & State Houses of Assembly- 6th March 2027
   The detailed Timetable and Schedule of Activities have been uploaded to the Commission’s official website and circulated to all registered political parties and relevant stakeholders. All the 36 Resident Electoral Commissioners and that of the FCT are directed to publish this Notice in each constituency in respect of which an election is to be held.
   These dates reflect our commitment to ensuring that our electoral processes are transparent, credible, and adhere to the provisions of our laws.
6. In accordance with the approved Timetable and Schedule of Activities:
   Party primaries will be conducted within the statutory period stipulated by law.
   Submission of nomination forms by political parties will commence and close within the designated window as provided in the Schedule.
   Campaigns by political parties shall commence on the date specified by law and end 24 hours before Election Day.
7. However, I must also take a moment to address the current Electoral Amendment Bill that is pending in the National Assembly. This bill has sparked important discussions and concerns among various stakeholders in our democracy. We recognize the necessity of enhancing our electoral framework to ensure that it meets the ever-evolving needs of our society and reflects our aspirations for free, fair, and credible elections.
8. It is imperative to note that while we are eager to adopt any amendments that may strengthen our electoral processes, we must also act in accordance with the existing provisions of the Electoral Act. As an independent electoral body, we are committed to upholding the rule of law and ensuring that our actions are guided by the established legal framework. The timely announcement of the election date is a critical step in this process, allowing our stakeholders—political parties, civil society organisations, and the electorate—to prepare adequately for the elections.
9. As we move forward, INEC remains dedicated to engaging with all stakeholders to foster a transparent dialogue regarding the proposed amendments. We believe that collaboration and open communication are essential in shaping an electoral system that serves the interests of all Nigerians.
10. Political parties are strongly advised to strictly adhere to the timelines. The Commission will not hesitate to enforce compliance with the law.
    The Commission remains committed to:
    Deepening the deployment of technology to enhance transparency in the electoral processs.
    Ensuring the continuous cleaning and updating of the National Register of Voters;
    Strengthening engagement with security agencies to guarantee peaceful elections; and
    Expanding voter education and stakeholder collaboration to promote informed participation.
11. Let me reiterate that INEC is an independent body. We are guided solely by the Constitution, the Electoral Act, and our Regulations and Guidelines. We shall continue to act impartially, transparently, and professionally in the discharge of our duties.
    I call on political parties to conduct peaceful and credible primaries, to shun violence and inflammatory rhetoric, and to uphold internal democracy. I equally appeal to candidates, supporters, and the electorate to conduct themselves peacefully throughout the electoral cycle.
12. The success of the 2027 General Elections is a collective responsibility. Government institutions, security agencies, the media, civil society organisations, and indeed all Nigerians must play their respective roles.
    As we commence this important national exercise, I assure Nigerians that the Commission is fully prepared and determined to deliver elections that reflect the sovereign will of the people.
13. In conclusion, I urge all political parties, candidates, and citizens to begin preparing for this pivotal moment in our democracy. Let us work together to ensure that the electoral process is peaceful, inclusive, and reflective of the will of the Nigerian people.
    On behalf of the Commission, I hereby formally release the Notice of Election and the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Elections.
    May God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
    Thank you.

Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, SAN, Chairman
Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)
Abuja, Nigeria
13th February 2026.