Fresh moves to reconsider the date of the 2027 presidential election have prompted the National Assembly of Nigeria to suspend its recess and reconvene for an emergency plenary session.
In a notice issued by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, lawmakers were instructed to resume at 11 a.m. on Tuesday, February 17.
The memo stated that “very crucial decisions shall be taken by each Chamber during the session,” urging senators and members of the House of Representatives to adjust their schedules accordingly.
Although the notice did not specify the agenda, sources familiar with the development said the primary focus of the session would be the February 20, 2027 presidential election date earlier announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Concerns have been raised that the scheduled date falls within the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, potentially affecting voter turnout and participation. A senator, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the emergency sitting was aimed at granting legislative approval for INEC to adjust the timetable in response to the concerns. Another lawmaker indicated that the poll could be moved forward by a week, possibly to February 13.
INEC had previously acknowledged the sensitivities surrounding the timing of the election. The commission stated that it remains attentive to legitimate concerns that could impact electoral participation and signalled that it may seek legislative backing where necessary.
