The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has dismissed a viral social media graphic claiming it revised the campaign timetable for the 2027 general elections.
The commission described the graphic as fake and urged Nigerians to rely on its official communication channels for accurate electoral information.
INEC denies issuing separate timetable
The viral graphic claimed INEC extended the deadline for presidential and National Assembly campaigns from January 14 to January 15, 2027.
It also alleged that campaigns for governorship and state House of Assembly elections would end on February 5 instead of February 4, 2027. However, INEC’s Chief Press Secretary, Adedayo Oketola, said the commission never released such a timetable.
“This graphic did not emanate from INEC. The commission does not issue campaign timetables separately.”
Official timetable remains unchanged
Oketola explained that the official campaign dates remain those contained in the revised timetable and schedule of activities released on February 26, 2026.
He noted that the timetable already outlines all activities leading to the 2027 general elections. According to the schedule, campaigns for the presidential and National Assembly elections will begin on August 19, 2026.
Campaigns for governorship and state House of Assembly elections will commence on September 9, 2026. The presidential and National Assembly campaigns will end on January 14, 2027. Governorship and state assembly campaigns will close on February 4, 2027, 24 hours before the elections.
INEC warns against misinformation
The commission urged journalists and members of the public to verify election-related information before sharing it. Oketola warned that misinformation could mislead voters as preparations for the 2027 elections gather pace.
“We advise the media and the public to always verify electoral information through our official channels. As we enter the election season, we must all remain vigilant against the spread of misinformation and disinformation.”
The revised timetable schedules the presidential and National Assembly elections for January 16, 2027. Governorship and state House of Assembly elections will take place on February 6, 2027.
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