National Assembly Meets To Shift 2027 Presidential Election Date

The National Assembly has cut short its recess to hold an emergency plenary on February 17, 2026, amid moves to shift the 2027 presidential election date from February 20 to February 13, 2027.

In a notice issued by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, lawmakers were directed to resume at 11am for what was described as a session to take “very crucial decisions.” However, insiders revealed that the primary agenda is to amend the Electoral Act to accommodate concerns over the current election timetable.

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) had earlier scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, a date that falls within the Ramadan fasting period. Muslim groups, including the Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC), alongside key political stakeholders, argued that the timing could limit voter participation.

Sources within the legislature disclosed that the proposed February 13 date is aimed at ensuring inclusivity and preventing religious constraints from affecting turnout. The move would require legislative backing to adjust the existing electoral framework.

The development comes as lawmakers also continue work on amendments to the Electoral Act, including provisions for electronic transmission of results, while retaining manual collation where technology fails.

Political analysts say the decision to reconsider the election date signals heightened sensitivity to public pressure and religious considerations, with implications for voter participation, electoral credibility and Nigeria’s democratic stability ahead of the 2027 polls.