Nigeria’s political landscape is set for a dramatic reset as the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) schedules party primaries for the 2027 general elections to hold between April 23 and May 30, 2026, triggering intense preparations across political parties nationwide.
The primaries timeline forms part of a newly released election timetable that also moves the 2027 general elections forward, following the repeal of the Electoral Act 2022 and the enactment of the Electoral Act 2026.
Under the revised schedule, Presidential and National Assembly elections will take place on Saturday, January 16, 2027, while Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are slated for Saturday, February 6, 2027.
INEC said the adjustments were made to align with the new legal framework introduced by the Electoral Act 2026, which revised statutory timelines governing party activities, campaigns, and election conduct.
Tight Deadlines for Political Parties
The April 23–May 30 window provides just over five weeks for political parties to conduct primaries, resolve internal disputes, and submit candidates’ names to INEC — a development observers say could intensify intra-party tensions.
Campaign activities for Presidential and National Assembly candidates will officially commence on August 19, 2026, while Governorship and State Assembly campaigns will begin on September 9, 2026.
In line with existing electoral law, all political campaigns must end 24 hours before election day, leaving no room for last-minute rallies or publicity drives.
Osun Governorship Election Adjusted
INEC also announced a slight adjustment to the Osun State Governorship election, shifting it from August 8 to August 15, 2026. The one-week postponement comes amid preparations already underway in the state.
Political Reactions Trail Announcement
While INEC maintains that the changes strictly comply with the Electoral Act 2026, political stakeholders are already weighing the implications of the compressed timelines. Analysts note that the earlier election dates could significantly reshape campaign strategies, alliance negotiations, and voter mobilization efforts.
Despite emerging debates — including concerns about scheduling overlaps and political readiness — the commission insists the timetable is final and legally grounded.
With less than two months before the primaries window opens, Nigeria’s political parties now face a race against time to organize, negotiate, and position their candidates for what promises to be a fiercely contested 2027 general election.