By Joshua Tosin Ogunsakin 
He explained that by virtue of the Constitution, the tenure of the President, Vice President, Governors and Deputy Governors, except those in Anambra, Bayelsa, Edo, Ekiti, Imo, Kogi, Ondo and Osun will expire on May 28, 2027, while membership of the National and State Assemblies will stand dissolved on June 8, 2027.
“Pursuant to Sections 76(2), 116(2), 132(2) and 178(2) of the Constitution, elections to the said offices shall hold not earlier than 150 days and not later than 30 days before the expiration of the term of office of the last holder of that office,” he said.
He added that according to the approved timetable, party primaries will be conducted within the statutory period stipulated by law, while submission of nomination forms by political parties will commence and close within the designated window.
He also said campaigns by political parties, shall begin on the date specified by law and end 24 hours before Election Day.
He reminded political parties to adhere strictly to statutory timelines for primaries, nomination submissions, and campaigns, warning that INEC would not hesitate to enforce compliance with the law.
Amupitan further called on government institutions, security agencies, the media, civil society, candidates, and the electorate to ensure peaceful, credible elections, describing the 2027 polls as a “collective responsibility.”
“As we commence this important national exercise, I assure Nigerians that the commission is fully prepared and determined to deliver elections that reflect the sovereign will of the people,” he said.
The announcement comes amid growing concerns over the delayed passage of the amended Electoral Act currently before the National Assembly.
INEC had on February 4 indicated that it had completed work on the election timetable and schedule of activities despite the delay.
The commission noted that it had submitted its timetable to lawmakers but cautioned that some items in the schedule of activities could be affected depending on when the amended Electoral Act is eventually passed.