The Independent National Electoral Commission has reacted to widespread claims about the 2027 general election timetable.
The commission said no such timetable has been released. It described the reports as false and misleading.
INEC made it clear that it has not published any timetable or schedule of activities for the 2027 general election.
The commission said the information being shared in some quarters did not come from it. It warned Nigerians to be careful with unverified election-related claims.
According to INEC, its actions are guided strictly by the law. The commission pointed to the Electoral Act, 2022, which clearly states when a notice of election can be issued.
INEC stressed that it cannot act outside what the law permits.
“Any timetable or schedule issued outside this statutory framework cannot emanate from INEC,” a statement signed by Adedayo Oketola CPS/Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, said.
The commission explained that Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, provides a clear timeline. It states that a notice of election must be published not later than 360 days before the date fixed for a general election. INEC said this legal provision remains binding and non-negotiable.
INEC also assured Nigerians that the official timetable for the 2027 general election will be released at the appropriate time.
It said the process will fully comply with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999, as amended, and the Electoral Act, 2022.
The electoral body added that when the timetable is eventually released, it will be made public through its official and verified communication channels.
It urged citizens and media organisations to rely only on these platforms for accurate information.
The commission further appealed to the public to ignore the circulating reports. It warned that fake election information can cause confusion and unnecessary tension in the country.
INEC said it remains committed to transparency and due process. It reassured Nigerians of its readiness to conduct credible elections when the time comes.