The Independent National Electoral Commission has dismissed reports claiming that it has released a timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general election, describing the information as false and misleading.
In a statement issued on Friday, January 2, by the Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, Adedayo Oketola, the commission clarified that it has not published any timetable for the 2027 polls, contrary to claims circulating in some quarters.
According to INEC, a document being shared on social media and presented as the official schedule of activities for the 2027 general election did not originate from the commission.
The electoral body stressed that it operates strictly within the provisions of the law, noting that Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022 requires the commission to publish a Notice of Election not later than 360 days before the date appointed for a general election.
“Any timetable or schedule issued outside this statutory framework cannot emanate from INEC,” the commission said.
INEC assured Nigerians that the official timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general election would be released at the appropriate time and in full compliance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and the Electoral Act, 2022.
The commission added that once released, such information would be communicated through its verified and official channels, urging the public and the media to disregard unverified reports and rely only on authentic INEC platforms for accurate updates.
In his New Year message, the INEC Chairman reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to conducting transparent, credible and inclusive elections in 2027, noting that preparatory steps are already underway to strengthen the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.
He described the year ahead as an important phase for reinforcing institutional frameworks ahead of the next general elections.
Reflecting on the commission’s activities in 2025, the INEC Chairman commended staff for their dedication, citing the successful conduct of the Anambra State governorship election held shortly after he assumed office on October 23.
He noted that the exercise demonstrated that with discipline, unity and professionalism, the commission remains capable of protecting the integrity of the electoral process and sustaining public confidence.
