The Nigerian Senate has passed an amendment to the Electoral Act 2026, reducing the mandatory notice period for general elections from 360 days to 300 days.
The move is aimed at preventing the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections from holding during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, which lawmakers fear could affect voter participation and election credibility.
Why the Senate Changed the Law
The amendment was introduced after Opeyemi Bamidele, the Senate Leader, raised concerns that the existing 360-day notice requirement could compel the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to schedule the elections during Ramadan.
He warned that conducting nationwide elections during the fasting period could negatively impact:
- Voter turnout
- Election logistics
- Stakeholder participation
- Overall inclusiveness and credibility of the process
Following his motion, the Senate agreed to rescind and recommit the bill for urgent amendment.
What the Amendment Changes
Under the revised Clause 28, INEC is now required to publish election notices “not later than 300 days” before the date of the poll, clearly stating the election date and nomination procedures.
The adjustment gives INEC more flexibility in fixing election dates without violating religious or cultural sensitivities.
INEC Already Announced 2027 Election Dates
The amendment followed consultations between National Assembly leadership and INEC.
INEC has already announced:
- February 20, 2027 – Presidential and National Assembly elections
- March 6, 2027 – Governorship and State Assembly elections
Senate: Dates Not Meant to Clash With Ramadan
Chairman of the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, Simon Lalong, clarified that the election dates were not deliberately chosen to conflict with Ramadan.
According to him, the timetable aligns with a long-term election schedule introduced by former INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu, covering election cycles from 2019 to 2031.
Bill Passed Swiftly
The amendment was passed quickly after the Senate invoked its standing orders to revisit the bill, signalling strong consensus among lawmakers on the need to avoid religious disruption ahead of the 2027 polls.
More legislative actions are expected as preparations for the next general elections gather momentum.
