National Assembly is set to reconvene February 17 as Lawmakers consider shifting 2027 Presidential Election date to Feb 13.
NewsOnline Nigeria reports that the National Assembly will reconvene plenary on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, cutting short its recess amid indications that lawmakers may review the date of the 2027 presidential election.
According to findings, federal lawmakers are considering moving the presidential poll from February 20 to February 13, 2027, following concerns that the previously announced date falls within the Ramadan fasting period.
In a notice signed by the Clerk to the National Assembly, Kamoru Ogunlana, senators and members of the House of Representatives were directed to resume at 11:00 a.m., as “very crucial decisions” are expected during the session.
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“I am directed to inform all Distinguished Senators and Honourable Members of the National Assembly that the Senate and House of Representatives shall reconvene plenary session at 11:00 am on Tuesday, 17th February 2026,” the notice stated, urging members to adjust their schedules accordingly.
However, sources within the National Assembly revealed that the extraordinary session is primarily to review the 2027 presidential election date in light of concerns raised by stakeholders.
A senator, who spoke on condition of anonymity, said the move is aimed at giving legislative backing to INEC’s request to address the controversy surrounding the election timetable.
“The ultimate aim is to adjust the presidential election date, especially considering concerns about the overlap with Ramadan,” the lawmaker disclosed.
Another Senate insider confirmed that the presidential poll may be brought forward to February 13, pending legislative approval.
The development follows recent amendments to the Electoral Act, where the Senate approved electronic transmission of results to INEC’s Result Viewing Portal (IReV), while retaining manual collation as a backup where technological challenges arise.
INEC had earlier scheduled the presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, and governorship and state assembly elections for March 6, 2027. However, Muslim advocacy groups and several political figures raised objections, arguing that the February 20 date coincides with Ramadan, which may affect voter participation.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and other stakeholders urged the commission to reconsider the timetable in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion.
INEC acknowledged the concerns and stated that it remains open to legislative intervention where necessary, provided adjustments comply with constitutional and statutory requirements.
Meanwhile, the Joint National Assembly Conference Committee is expected to meet to harmonise the Senate and House versions of the Electoral Amendment Bill before transmitting it to President Bola Tinubu for assent.
Political analysts say Tuesday’s plenary could significantly shape preparations for the 2027 general elections, particularly as lawmakers weigh religious sensitivities, technological capacity, and electoral credibility in their deliberations.
