NASS moves to shift presidential election date from Feb 20

The National Assembly will reconvene plenary on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, after abruptly cutting short its recess, amid strong indications that lawmakers are set to review the timetable for the 2027 presidential election.

A notice issued by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, directed senators and members of the House of Representatives to resume sitting at 11 a.m., stressing that “very crucial decisions” would be taken during the session.

While the official communication did not disclose the agenda, multiple legislative sources confirmed that the emergency plenary is primarily aimed at considering a possible adjustment of the presidential poll currently scheduled for February 20, 2027 due to the Muslim festival which falls within the period.

The Ramadan period is between February 7 and March 8, 2027.

Findings indicate that lawmakers may move the election forward by one week.

Insiders told journalists that the extraordinary session is intended to provide legal backing for a potential request from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which has acknowledged public pressure to review the timetable. INEC had earlier said its hands were constitutionally tied.

Stakeholders, including Muslim advocacy groups and several political figures, have argued that holding elections during Ramadan could affect turnout, logistics, and participation by voters, observers, and election officials.

“This plenary goes beyond routine legislative business. It is about ensuring inclusivity and protecting the credibility of the electoral process,” a Senate source said.

INEC had earlier defended its timetable, noting that it complied with constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act, but signalled willingness to seek legislative intervention if necessary.