House of Representatives has fixed Tuesday for an emergency plenary session to deliberate on the controversial timetable released by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for 2027 general elections.
Gatekeepers News reports that in a statement released late Friday, Akin Rotimi, spokesperson of the House, disclosed that lawmakers were formally informed of the urgent sitting through an internal memo circulated by the office of the Speaker. He explained that the session was convened in response to growing national concerns surrounding the election dates announced by INEC.
On Friday, INEC scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, while governorship and state Houses of Assembly elections were slated for March 6, 2027. However, the announcement quickly generated widespread debate due to its overlap with major religious fasting periods observed by both Muslims and Christians across the country.
According to the 1448 AH Islamic calendar, the holy month of Ramadan is expected to commence on February 8, 2027, and conclude around March 10, 2027. In the same period, the Christian Lenten season is set to begin on February 10, 2027, marked by Ash Wednesday, and continue until March 27, 2027, culminating in Easter Sunday on March 28.
The convergence of the election timetable with these significant religious observances has raised concerns among political stakeholders, civil society groups, and election analysts, who warn that the development could negatively impact voter mobilisation, participation, logistics, and overall turnout, especially in communities where religious commitments strongly influence daily activities.
Rotimi said the emergency sitting would provide lawmakers the opportunity to carefully assess the constitutional, legal, and national implications of the proposed election schedule, with a view to determining whether legislative intervention is required.
“The emergency sitting reflects the resolve of the House to respond promptly to issues with far-reaching implications for the nation’s democratic process,” the statement reads.
“Deliberations will focus on relevant legislative matters connected to the announcement, in line with the constitutional responsibilities of the National Assembly.
“All legislative business relating to the matter is expected to be addressed expeditiously.”
He added that the House remains firmly committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions through responsive and responsible lawmaking aimed at protecting the interests of citizens and safeguarding the credibility of the electoral process.
