INEC Debunks 2027 Election Timetable Reports, Warns Against Fake Information
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has firmly denied reports circulating in some sections of the media and on social platforms claiming that it has released a timetable for the 2027 general elections, describing such information as false, misleading and entirely unfounded.
In a statement issued on Thursday, January 2, 2026, the Commission clarified that it has not released, and could not have released, any timetable or schedule for the 2027 general election at this time, stressing that it operates strictly within the provisions of the law.
INEC explained that the alleged timetable did not emanate from the Commission and should therefore be disregarded by the public and the media. It cited Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which clearly stipulates the statutory timeframe within which the Commission is empowered to publish notices of elections.
According to the statement, any election timetable or schedule issued outside the legal framework provided by the Electoral Act cannot be attributed to INEC under any circumstance.
“Any timetable or schedule issued outside this statutory framework cannot emanate from INEC,” the Commission stated.
INEC further assured Nigerians that when the appropriate time comes, it will officially release the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general election through its verified and recognised communication channels.
The electoral body also urged members of the public, political stakeholders and the media to exercise caution and rely solely on information published through its official platforms in order to avoid being misled by false or speculative reports.
“The public and the media are advised to discountenance such fake reports and always seek clarification from INEC’s official channels,” the statement added.
The statement was signed by Mr. Adedayo Oketola, Chief Press Secretary/Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman.
INEC has in recent times continued to caution against the spread of misinformation, noting that the circulation of unverified electoral information has the potential to cause confusion, undermine public trust and disrupt the electoral process.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, legality and timely communication, assuring Nigerians that all critical electoral activities will be announced in line with the law and best democratic practices.
As preparations for future elections remain subject to statutory timelines, INEC reiterated that it will not act outside the provisions of the Electoral Act
EDITOR
Sam Udekwe is a journalist working in the News and Current Affairs department, Enugu State Broadcasting Service (ESBS) Enugu. He is well trained in all genres of journalistic venture.
Mr Sam read Mass Communication, graduating all with Distinction in National Diploma, Higher National Diploma and Postgraduate Diploma at IMT, Enugu and Madonna University, Okija, Anambra state, as well as M.Sc Mass Communication with Second Class(Upper Division) at National Open University of Nigeria.
He is the immediate past NUJ Chairman, Enugu state.
samowailo@gmail.com
