The Independent National Electoral Commission has cautioned the public against a misleading article circulating online that falsely claims the Commission has released a timetable for the 2027 General Elections.
In a statement issued on Tuesday through its official platforms, INEC described the report as “not authentic and should be disregarded in its entirety,” emphasising that it has not released “any official timetable, schedule of activities, or dates for the 2027 General Elections.”
“Any document or report claiming otherwise is fabricated. The details in the false article—including specific election dates, campaign periods, and party primary windows—are entirely speculative and without any official basis. They do not represent the plans or position of INEC,” the statement said.
The Commission advised Nigerians, political parties, civil society organisations, and other stakeholders to depend solely on verified INEC communication channels for accurate information. These include its official website (http://inecnigeria.org), verified social media handles (@inecnigeria on X, Facebook, and Instagram), and formal press releases.
“The general public is strongly advised to ignore this misleading report. INEC will make official announcements regarding the 2027 General Elections through the proper channels at the appropriate time,” the statement emphasised.
INEC recalled that it had issued a similar clarification on January 3, when it also dismissed earlier claims of a released election timetable.
The Chief Press Secretary and Media Adviser to the INEC Chairman, Adedayo Oketola, described the report as “false and misleading,” adding that the Commission operates strictly in line with legal provisions.
He referenced Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, 2022, which requires INEC to publish a notice of election “not later than 360 days before the date fixed for a general election.”
Meanwhile, the Commission has begun distributing Permanent Voter Cards in preparation for the February 21 Area Council elections in the Federal Capital Territory.
Eligible voters are to collect their PVCs at their respective registration areas (wards) between January 22 and January 26, from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. daily.
Those who are unable to collect their cards within this period may do so later at INEC Area Council offices across the FCT.