By Our Correspondent
Lawmakers in the Nigeria are set to reconvene on February 17 for a special legislative session aimed at reviewing key provisions of the Electoral Act, including a proposal to reduce the mandatory election notice period from 360 days to 300 days.
The extraordinary sitting of the National Assembly of Nigeria follows the recent release of the 2027 general election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The proposed amendment is intended to align the legal framework governing elections with the updated electoral schedule and administrative realities.
Under the current law, INEC is required to issue a notice of election at least 360 days before the poll. However, lawmakers are considering trimming this timeframe to 300 days, arguing that the adjustment would provide greater flexibility while still preserving adequate preparation time for political parties, candidates, and the electoral body.
Sources within the legislature indicate that the review will also address other technical and procedural aspects of the Electoral Act to ensure clarity, efficiency, and consistency with constitutional provisions. The move underscores the urgency attached to electoral reforms as the country prepares for the next general election cycle.
The February 17 session is expected to generate robust debate among lawmakers, as stakeholders weigh the implications of altering established timelines. Observers note that any amendment to the Electoral Act could have significant political and administrative consequences, making the deliberations a matter of national interest.
