INEC has officially denied reports suggesting it had revised the campaign timetable for the upcoming 2027 general elections. The claim surfaced following the circulation of a graphic online that allegedly outlined a new schedule for the electoral process. According to the graphic, the campaign periods for both the presidential and National Assembly elections would end on January 15, 2027, instead of January 14 as previously announced. Similarly, the governorship and state House of Assembly elections would conclude on February 5, 2027, rather than February 4. However, INEC has categorically refuted this information, stating that such changes have not been made. Adedayo Oketola, the Chief Press Secretary to INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan, confirmed that the commission had not issued any separate campaign timetable. He emphasized that the graphic in question was fabricated and did not originate from INEC. Instead, he pointed out that all official campaign timelines are included in the revised timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general election, which was formally released on February 26, 2026. This timetable outlines specific dates for key electoral milestones, including the issuance of the notice of election on February 13, 2026, and the commencement of campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections on August 19, 2026. The timetable also specifies that the campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections will end on January 14, 2027, while those for the governorship and state House of Assembly elections will conclude on February 4, 2027, exactly one day prior to the respective elections. These dates align with the existing electoral calendar established by INEC, reinforcing the commission's stance that no alterations have been made to the original schedule. Meanwhile, the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), specifically the faction aligned with Federal Capital Territory Minister Nyesom Wike, celebrated the publication of its presidential candidate, Senator Sandy Onor, and his running mate, Babangida Umar, on INEC’s list of candidates. This development marked a significant turning point for the party, effectively dispelling long-standing rumors that it would not participate in the 2027 elections due to internal conflicts. In a statement, the PDP acknowledged the efforts of its members and supporters who remained steadfast despite the challenges faced by the party. The PDP also extended its gratitude to INEC, the judiciary, and security agencies for their adherence to the rule of law and constitutional duties. The party reiterated its commitment to reconciliation and invited aggrieved members to return, emphasizing the importance of unity in reclaiming political power. Additionally, the PDP welcomed returning members and recent defectors, viewing their decisions as a sign of renewed trust in the party’s vision and leadership. In contrast, Adewale Adebayo, the Social Democratic Party (SDP) presidential candidate, clarified that INEC's role is limited to publishing the names of candidates submitted by political parties, rather than assessing their eligibility. He likened INEC to a public institution akin to the post office, tasked solely with disseminating information received from political entities. Adebayo insisted that the scrutiny of candidates' credentials falls upon the electorate and other stakeholders, who can challenge any false declarations through legal avenues. He also highlighted the peaceful and transparent nature of the SDP’s nomination process, noting that INEC had published the names of the party’s vice-presidential candidate, along with numerous senatorial and House of Representatives candidates. As the 2027 general election approaches, the clarity surrounding the electoral calendar and the confirmation of candidates by INEC provide a foundation for the political landscape. With the PDP and SDP having secured their positions, attention turns to how these developments might influence the broader electoral dynamics and voter engagement in the coming years.
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