By John Umeh
Nigeria’s political calendar may soon undergo a historic shift as the National Assembly considers moving the 2027 general elections forward to November 2026 — six months before the current administration completes its tenure.
The proposal, contained in the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2025, was presented on Monday during a joint public hearing of the Senate and House Committees on Electoral Matters in Abuja. Lawmakers explained that the reform is designed to ensure that all electoral disputes are resolved well before the official handover of power on May 29, 2027.
Traditionally, general elections are conducted in February or March of an election year, often leaving courts burdened with petitions even after new leaders are sworn in. The amendment seeks to end this cycle by requiring that presidential and governorship elections be held not later than 185 days before the end of incumbents’ terms. That timeline directly points to November 2026.
Quoting from Section 4(7) of the proposed bill:
“Elections into the office of the President and Governor of a State shall be held not later than 185 days before the expiration of the term of office of the last holder of the office.”
A corresponding section sets the same rule for National Assembly and State Assembly elections, creating a harmonised electoral timetable across the country.
Hon. Adebayo Balogun, Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, explained that the reform aims to give Nigeria’s electoral system “breathing space.” Under the proposed schedule, tribunals would have 90 days to issue judgments, appeals must be concluded within 60 days, and the Supreme Court would deliver final rulings within the remaining period — all before the next administration begins.
To make the change effective, lawmakers also plan to amend Sections 285 and 139 of the 1999 Constitution, which currently govern the timelines for election petitions.
Modernising Nigeria’s Elections
Beyond shifting dates, the draft bill introduces several innovations to strengthen Nigeria’s democratic process. Key highlights include:
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Electronic Voting & Transmission of Results: The bill makes it mandatory for presiding officers to transmit election results both electronically and manually. Failure to do so could result in a ₦1 million fine, one year’s imprisonment, or both.
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Early Voting: Security agencies, INEC officials, accredited observers, journalists, and ad-hoc workers will be allowed to vote up to 14 days before the main election. This ensures they are not disenfranchised while performing essential duties.
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Stronger Sanctions: Electoral officers who issue unstamped or unverified ballot papers or result sheets will face strict penalties.
Strong Reactions from Stakeholders
The proposals drew widespread interest and support at the hearing. Prof. Abdullahi Zuru, representing INEC, described the reforms as “a bold step that will enhance credibility, reduce post-election tension, and allow better planning.”
Civil society organisations and political parties also welcomed the draft law, calling it both “timely and courageous.” Many argued that holding elections earlier would not only create smoother transitions but also reduce the intense political and judicial pressure that typically follows Nigerian elections.
For analysts, the reform represents more than just a change of dates. “This is about restoring confidence in the electoral process and strengthening Nigeria’s democracy,” one participant remarked.
If passed, the amendments could permanently reshape Nigeria’s electoral culture — introducing timely justice, credible elections, and seamless transitions that have long eluded the system.
