Reps to Hold Emergency Plenary on Tuesday to Discuss 2027 Election Dates

Members of the house of representatives are scheduled to hold an emergency plenary on Tuesday.

In a statement issued on Friday night, Akin Rotimi, the house’s spokesperson, said members were notified of the emergency sitting through an internal memo from the office of the speaker.

Rotimi said the legislators will discuss the 2027 general election dates announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

On Friday, the commission fixed the presidential and national assembly elections for February 20, 2027, with governorship and state houses of assembly elections to follow on March 6.

The scheduled dates coincide with major fasting periods observed by Muslims and Christians.

Ramadan, the Islamic holy month, is projected to begin on February 8, 2027, and end around March 10, 2027, according to the 1448 AH Islamic calendar.

Similarly, the Christian Lenten season will commence on Ash Wednesday, February 10, 2027, and run through March 27, culminating in Easter Sunday on March 28, 2027.

This implies that the elections will hold as Muslims and Christians observe their respective fasts — a timing analysts say may affect voter mobilisation, participation and overall turnout.

Rotimi said the emergency session will enable lawmakers to review the constitutional and national implications of the election timetable and take necessary legislative action.

“The emergency sitting reflects the resolve of the House to respond promptly to issues with far-reaching implications for the nation’s democratic process,” the statement reads.

“Deliberations will focus on relevant legislative matters connected to the announcement, in line with the constitutional responsibilities of the National Assembly.

“All legislative business relating to the matter is expected to be addressed expeditiously.”

Rotimi added that the house remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions through “responsive and responsible lawmaking” in the best interest of Nigerians.