Senate Cuts Election Notice to 300 Days to Avoid Ramadan Clash in 2027 Polls
The Nigerian Senate has amended the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, 2026, reducing the mandatory
notice period for elections from 360 days to 300 days, in a bid to prevent the 2027 presidential and
National Assembly polls from coinciding with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
During a special plenary session on Tuesday, senators reconsidered the notice requirement originally
included in Clause 28 of the bill, and approved a revised version after concerns were raised that the
longer notice period could lock in election dates during Ramadan in February 2027.
Under the amended clause, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is now required to
publish official election notices not later than 300 days before a scheduled poll, a notice that will state
the date of the election and the deadline for delivery of nomination papers. This gives INEC greater
flexibility to set election dates at a time that does not disrupt religious observances.
The motion for the amendment was moved by Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central),
who told colleagues that holding elections during Ramadan could negatively affect voter turnout,
logistical coordination, stakeholder participation and the overall inclusiveness of the voting process.
The adjustment follows earlier consultations between National Assembly leaders and INEC, which had
initially announced 20 February 2027 for the presidential and National Assembly elections and 6 March
2027 for governorship and state assembly polls under the previous timetable.
Lawmakers said the revised notice period balances constitutional timelines with religious and logistical
sensitivities, allowing INEC to finalise dates that respect both legal requirements and citizens’
observances.
The amendment was passed during clause-by-clause consideration of the Electoral Act (Repeal and Re-
Enactment) Bill and now moves forward in the legislative process pending further readings and eventual
presidential assent.
By Oyinkansola Shittu.
