The House of Representatives has announced that it will reconvene for an emergency sitting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, to deliberate on issues arising from the recent release of the 2027 General Election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The announcement was contained in a statement signed by the House spokesperson, Hon. Akin Rotimi.

He said members were notified through an internal memorandum issued by the Office of the Speaker late on Friday, underscoring the constitutional and national significance of the development and the need for prompt legislative attention.

The statement said the emergency sitting reflects the House’s determination to respond swiftly to matters with far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s democratic process.

Deliberations are expected to centre on legislative issues connected to INEC’s announcement, in keeping with the constitutional responsibilities of the National Assembly.

“All legislative business relating to the matter is expected to be addressed expeditiously,” the statement read. “Honourable Members have been strongly advised to prioritise attendance, given the importance of the issues under consideration.”

The House reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions through responsive and responsible lawmaking, ensuring that its actions remain in the best interest of Nigerians.

INEC had on Friday announced that the presidential and National Assembly elections would be held on February 20, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections are scheduled for March 6, 2027. The commission also fixed party primaries between May 22 and June 20, 2026, for the nomination of candidates.

However, some Nigerians, particularly Muslims, have expressed concern over the February 20, 2027 date, noting that it falls within the holy month of Ramadan. They argued that the physical demands of fasting could affect voter turnout, logistics, observers, and electoral officers’ efficiency.

Among those who raised concerns is former Vice President and former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, who urged the commission to reconsider the date in view of its overlap with Ramadan.

Meanwhile, the commission has responded to the concerns surrounding the timetable.

In a statement issued on Friday by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, INEC said the timetable was developed in strict compliance with the timelines stipulated in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, and the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, 2022.

Haruna explained that the regulations and guidelines, in effect since 2019, prescribe the dates on which elections are to be held.

However, he added that, in light of recent developments, “the Commission is currently undertaking consultations and may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the concerns raised, while ensuring that any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements.

“INEC reiterates its unwavering commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of the 2027 General Election. The public will be duly informed of any further developments.”