Kenneth Okonkwo Urges INEC to Reschedule 2027 Elections

Kenneth Okonkwo urges INEC to reschedule 2027 elections to a single day, citing cost savings and reduced voter fatigue

Kenneth Okonkwo, veteran Nollywood actor and chieftain of the African Democratic Congress, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to reschedule the 2027 general elections to a single day.

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Speaking in Abuja, Okonkwo criticised the current timetable that separates the presidential and governorship elections by two weeks, citing financial, security, and logistical challenges.

Okonkwo warned that holding the elections on different days could heighten voter fatigue and reduce turnout.

He emphasised that Nigeria does not have the resources to manage the complex logistics involved in conducting elections across two separate dates, and that the proposed schedule risks discouraging citizen participation.

The actor-politician argued that the commission could override its own regulations if circumstances demanded, urging INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan to act promptly.

He highlighted the ₦873 billion projected budget as “unacceptable” and suggested that consolidating the elections into a single day would nearly halve costs.

INEC released the timetable on 13 February, scheduling the presidential and National Assembly elections for 20 February 2027, while governorship and State Assembly elections are set for 6 March 2027.

Okonkwo’s appeal reflects concerns that voters may struggle to return to the polls within two weeks, particularly given current economic and security pressures.

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The veteran actor concluded that a single-day election would enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and safeguard democratic participation, reinforcing the need for practical planning ahead of the 2027 polls.