By Chimdiogo Amuh 

The National Assembly has announced plans to reconvene an emergency plenary session on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, cutting short its recess amid moves to review the date of the 2027 presidential election.

Findings indicate that lawmakers are considering advancing the presidential poll to February 13, 2027, from the February 20 date earlier fixed by Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

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 plenary at 11 a.m., with emphasis that “very crucial decisions” would be taken during the session.

Sources within the legislature disclosed that the extraordinary sitting is primarily aimed at reviewing provisions of the Electoral Act amendment to give legislative backing to INEC’s request for an adjustment, following concerns that the scheduled election date coincides with the Ramadan fasting period.

According to the lawmakers, the proposed shift is intended to ensure inclusive participation and address concerns raised by religious groups and other stakeholders ahead of the 2027 general elections.

The emergency session also comes amid ongoing deliberations on amendments to the Electoral Act, including recent approvals relating to electronic transmission of election results and broader electoral reforms.

Lawmakers are expected to resume consideration of pending bills and committee reports, with the outcome of Tuesday’s plenary likely to shape the final timetable for the 2027 polls.