CSOs call on INEC to release the 2027 election timetable and urge National Assembly to complete Electoral Act amendments within two weeks
Civil society organisations (CSOs) have called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to issue the 2027 election timetable and schedule without further delay, in accordance with the provisions of the Electoral Act 2022.
Also read: CSOs Demand Removal of Anambra REC Over Alleged Election Manipulation Plot
The organisations, including Yiaga Africa, Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), The Kukah Centre, International Press Centre (IPC), elect her, Nigerian Women Trust Fund, and The Albino Foundation (TAF Africa), also urged the National Assembly to harmonise the bill seeking to amend the 2022 Electoral Act and transmit it to the President for assent within two weeks.
Speaking at a press conference in Abuja on Monday, Founder of The Albino Foundation, Dr. Jake Epelle, said legal uncertainty caused by ongoing amendments has deterred INEC from releasing the timetable, creating risks for electoral preparation.
“Indefinite legislative resolution creates a vacuum that compounds administrative challenges and legal vulnerabilities,” Dr. Epelle said.
“Issuing the timetable would fulfil statutory obligations, provide certainty for political parties and candidates, and establish baseline timelines that subsequent amendments can modify if necessary.”
The CSOs emphasised the need for the Senate to adopt the House of Representatives’ position mandating the electronic transmission of election results.
They urged conference committee members to prioritise national interest, institutional integrity, and democratic accountability over partisan considerations.
“We reiterate our recommendation that the National Assembly should expeditiously conclude the amendment process and transmit the final bill to the President within two weeks,” the groups said.
Also read: CSOs Warn on Nigeria Democracy Threats, Demand Reforms
The CSOs further called on citizens and stakeholders to demand accountability from legislators, insisting that provisions for real-time electronic transmission of results, downloadable permanent voters’ cards (PVCs), and the protection of established timelines be safeguarded to ensure credible elections.
