By Enemona Samuel Endurance | The Bureau News
Nigeria News Today: The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed reports circulating on social media claiming that it has released the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Friday, January 2, the electoral body described the purported timetable as false and misleading, stressing that no official schedule has been published for the 2027 polls.
The statement was signed by Adedayo Oketola, Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, who clarified that the commission has not authorized or circulated any timetable relating to the next general election.
“INEC has not released any timetable or schedule of activities for the 2027 general election,” the commission stated.
The clarification followed widespread circulation of a document on social media platforms, which falsely claimed to outline key dates and activities for the 2027 elections, allegedly issued by the commission.
INEC emphasized that it operates strictly within the provisions of the law, pointing out that Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022 mandates the commission to publish a Notice of Election not later than 360 days before the date appointed for a general election.
“Any timetable or schedule issued outside this statutory framework cannot emanate from INEC,” the statement added.
The commission reassured Nigerians that the official timetable for the 2027 general election would be released in due course and in full compliance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), and the Electoral Act, 2022.
INEC further noted that when the timetable is eventually published, it would be communicated through its verified and established channels to ensure transparency and public confidence.
As reported by The Bureau News, the commission also urged members of the public and the media to disregard unverified information and rely solely on official INEC platforms for accurate updates on Nigeria’s electoral process.
Observers say the clarification is part of efforts to curb misinformation and maintain trust in the electoral system, a concern also highlighted in broader electoral coverage by international media such as Reuters and BBC.
