The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has warned Nigerians to ignore a fake report claiming that the commission has released a timetable for the 2027 general elections.
INEC said it has not released any official timetable, dates, or schedule for the 2027 elections. According to the commission, the information being shared online about election dates, campaign periods, and party primaries is false and made up.
In a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) page, INEC explained that any document claiming to be its 2027 election timetable is fabricated. The commission urged the public to rely only on information from its verified communication channels.
INEC said the fake article does not reflect its plans or position in any way.
PVC Collection for FCT Elections
In a separate announcement, INEC reminded residents of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to collect their Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) ahead of the February 21 Area Council elections.
The commission said PVC collection will take place from January 22 to January 26, between 9:00 a.m. and 3:00 p.m. daily, at Registration Areas (Wards) across the FCT.
INEC added that after January 26, voters who have not collected their PVCs can do so at INEC Area Council offices.
Gambari Calls for Integrity in INEC
Former United Nations Secretary-General, Professor Ibrahim Gambari, has called on INEC to be a body that is clean and beyond suspicion.
Speaking on Arise Television, Gambari said INEC must act as a neutral referee in elections. He stressed that what matters most is not whether INEC officials are judges or professors, but whether they have proven integrity, competence, and a good track record.
He also said civil society groups should monitor INEC to ensure it performs its duties properly.
Concerns About 2027 Elections
Gambari warned that Nigeria is already behind schedule in preparing for credible elections in 2027. He blamed the situation on weak political parties, poor governance, lack of punishment for wrongdoing, and the absence of shared democratic values.
While dismissing fears that Nigeria could become a one-party state, he said democracy would not survive unless political parties are reformed.
