The House of Representatives has announced plans to reconvene for an emergency sitting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, following concerns arising from the release of the 2027 General Election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The development was disclosed in a statement signed by the House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, who said members were formally notified through an internal memorandum issued by the Office of the Speaker late on Friday.

According to the statement, the decision to reconvene underscores the constitutional and national significance of the electoral timetable and the need for prompt legislative attention. It added that the emergency sitting reflects the House’s resolve to respond swiftly to issues with far-reaching implications for Nigeria’s democratic process.

Lawmakers are expected to deliberate on legislative matters connected to INEC’s announcement, in line with the constitutional responsibilities of the National Assembly.

“All legislative business relating to the matter is expected to be addressed expeditiously,” the statement noted, adding that members had been strongly advised to prioritise attendance due to the importance of the issues to be considered.

The House reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening democratic institutions through responsive and responsible lawmaking in the overall interest of Nigerians.

INEC had on Friday announced that the Presidential and National Assembly elections would hold 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, the timetable has generated concerns among some Nigerians, particularly Muslims, who noted that the February 20, 2027 election date falls within the holy month of Ramadan. They warned that the physical demands of fasting could affect voter turnout, logistics, and the performance of electoral officials and observers.

Among those who raised concerns is former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, who urged INEC to reconsider the presidential election date because of its overlap with the Muslim fasting period.

Responding to the concerns, INEC said the timetable was drawn up in strict compliance with 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.

In a statement issued by INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, the commission explained that the regulations guiding election conduct, in force since 2019, prescribe timelines for polls.

Haruna added that INEC was currently consulting stakeholders and may, if necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the concerns raised, provided any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements.

He reiterated the commission’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of the 2027 General Election, assuring the public that any further decisions would be communicated in due course.