Nigeria’s leading opposition parties have declared their preparedness for the 2027 general elections following the release of the timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), while insisting that the credibility of the process must not be compromised.
The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) and African Democratic Congress (ADC) said they were ready to fully participate in the elections. However, they stressed that the legitimacy of the outcome would depend on transparency, fairness and strict adherence to electoral laws.
According to INEC’s schedule, presidential and National Assembly elections will take place on February 20, 2027, while governorship and state Houses of Assembly elections are slated for March 6, 2027.
The commission also outlined campaign timelines. Political parties will begin campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections on November 18, 2026, with activities ending on February 19, 2027 24 hours before polling day.
Campaigns for governorship and state Assembly elections will commence on December 15, 2026, and conclude on March 5, 2027.
Opposition parties said while they welcome early clarity on the timetable, the focus must now shift to ensuring a level playing field, timely release of funds and improvements in election management systems to build public confidence ahead of the polls.
