On October 13, 2025, the Independent National Electoral Commission endorsed a National Assembly plan to reschedule the 2027 presidential and governorship elections to November 2026, citing enhanced transparency and efficiency. However, opposition responses differ. Yesterday, the Peoples Democratic Party’s Timothy Osadolor criticized the move, suggesting it aims to extend President Bola Tinubu’s tenure.
The New Nigeria People’s Party’s Ladipo Johnson warned that the earlier date could disadvantage opposition parties. The African Democratic Congress reserved comment pending review, while the Labour Party’s Obiora Ifoh supported the proposal, citing cost savings. Dr. Yunusa Tanko of the Obidient Movement, on October 13, 2025, urged broader public consultation.
Introduced on September 15, 2025, as part of amendments to the 2022 Electoral Act, the proposal advances elections by six months to resolve legal disputes before the May 29, 2027, handover. The draft mandates that presidential and governorship elections occur at least 185 days before the incumbent’s term ends on May 29, 2027. National Assembly and state assembly elections would align with this timeline, setting the proposed election date around November 15, 2026, instead of February or March 2027. Lawmakers argue this ensures court cases conclude before winners are sworn in.
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At a joint public hearing on October 13, 2025, the House Committee on Electoral Matters, led by Adebayo Balogun, highlighted that the shift allows time for resolving election petitions. The committee proposed cutting tribunal judgment periods from 180 to 90 days, with appellate courts given up to 60 days, concluding by March 31, 2027.
The amendments also introduce early voting for security personnel, electoral officials, observers, journalists, and ad hoc staff on November 1, 2026. Additionally, the proposal mandates electronic and manual result transmission, with penalties for non-compliance.
