The House of Representatives will on Tuesday, 17th February, 2026 reconvene for an emergency sitting with a view to review matters arising from the recent announcement of the 2027 General Election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Spokesman of the 10th House, Rep. Akin Rotimi confirmed this via a statement made available to Parliamentary Correspondents.
According to him, the notice of the emergency sitting was “conveyed to Honourable Members through an internal memorandum issued by the Office of the Speaker late Friday, drawing attention to the constitutional and national significance of the development and the need for timely legislative consideration.
“The emergency sitting reflects the resolve of the House to respond promptly to issues with far-reaching implications for the nation’s democratic process.
“Deliberations will focus on relevant legislative matters connected to the announcement, in line with the constitutional responsibilities of the National Assembly.
“All legislative business relating to the matter is expected to be addressed expeditiously.”
To this end, he urged all the Members to “prioritise attendance, given the importance of the issues under consideration.
“The House remains committed to strengthening Nigeria’s democratic institutions through responsive and responsible lawmaking, and acting in the best interest of Nigerians on all matters.”
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Meanwhile, Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) has expressed disappointment and concern over the rejection of certain provisions of the Electoral Act (amendment) Bill passed by the Nigerian Senate on February 4, 2026, which many stakeholders viewed as critical to strengthening transparency, accountability, and public confidence in the electoral process.
Notably, the decision not to make the electronic transmission of election results mandatory has generated significant public debate.
“For many citizens, civil society organisations, election observers, and youth groups, mandatory electronic transmission represented a straightforward and visible mechanism to reinforce trust in election outcomes. Instead, the Senate retained the transmission framework contained in the 2022 Electoral Act.
“The absence of clearer statutory obligations may continue to leave room for differing interpretations and operational discretion. This development raises concerns about preparedness for credible elections in 2027.
“KDI notes that elections are not only legal exercises but also public-trust exercises. Confidence in electoral outcomes is shaped not only by procedures, but by the visibility and predictability of those procedures to ordinary citizens.
“Strengthening transparency provisions is therefore not merely a technical adjustment; it is an investment in long-term democratic credibility.
“KDI also notes with concern the Senate’s decision to remove the proposed 10-year disqualification for individuals convicted of vote buying. Vote buying remains one of the most corrosive threats to democratic integrity in Nigeria, distorting voter choice, commercialising the franchise, and undermining the legitimacy of electoral outcomes.
“Sanctions for electoral crimes must be proportionate to the harm they inflict and capable of serving as effective deterrents.
“Additionally, the reduction in the statutory timeline for issuing election notices from 360 days to 180 days raises further concerns. Adequate preparation time is fundamental to the successful conduct of large-scale elections.
“Shortening this window may place operational pressure on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and political parties, increasing the risk of logistical challenges, fragmented implementation, and avoidable disputes ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“KDI observes that the Senate’s position differs from that of the House of Representatives, which adopted provisions aimed at strengthening electoral transparency, accountability and deterrence against malpractice. This divergence within the National Assembly presents an important moment for reflection and alignment.
“As the Electoral Act Amendment Bill proceeds to the conference committee stage, the process presents an opportunity for lawmakers to carefully balance operational realities with public expectations, ensuring that the final legislation both protects institutional stability and strengthens citizen confidence.
“Nigeria stands at a pivotal point in its democratic journey. As preparations gradually begin toward the 2027 general elections, the legal framework governing those elections must not only function effectively but also inspire confidence across political divides and demographic groups, especially among young voters whose participation remains essential to democratic vitality.
“KDI reiterates its commitment to constructive engagement with lawmakers, electoral institutions, civil society, and citizens in advancing reforms that enhance transparency, accountability, and institutional trust.
“Electoral reform is an evolving process, and sustained dialogue remains essential to ensuring that Nigeria’s democratic systems continue to mature in line with public expectations,” the Group said in a statement made available to Tribune Online.
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