Ohanaeze Canada asks Igbo voters to plan Christmas trips around January 2027 polls
- Ohanaeze Ndigbo Canada has urged Igbo voters at home and abroad to take part in the 2027 presidential election.
- The group asked Christmas travellers to arrange their return before the January 16 poll so they do not miss voting.
- It said it is not backing any party or candidate and urged voters to make independent choices.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Canada has asked Igbo voters in Nigeria and abroad to put the 2027 general elections ahead of festive plans, warning that travel home for Christmas could cost them their vote if they are not back in time.
The group's president, Chief Dr Anicetus Nwizundu, made the call in a statement on Tuesday, October 20, 2026.
According to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on January 16, 2027. The governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are set for February 6, 2027.
That timetable puts the presidential vote just weeks after the Christmas and New Year holidays, when many Nigerians travel to their home towns and villages.
Plan your trip, group tells travellers
Nwizundu advised Ndigbo planning to travel in December 2026 or January 2027 for holidays, family reunions and traditional ceremonies to plan carefully so they do not miss the presidential election.
Those whose journeys are not essential, the group said, should consider postponing them until after the polls.
He urged eligible voters to turn out in large numbers and vote for candidates of their choice, saying every vote counts.
"Our message is straightforward: Your involvement counts and your vote is your voice," the group said, calling for peaceful and lawful participation.
Ohanaeze Ndigbo Canada said it was not endorsing any political party or presidential candidate. It said its position was guided by political neutrality and respect for voters' constitutional rights.
The group also raised concern about Nigeria's economic challenges and urged voters to use the ballot to influence the direction of governance. It said the future of Ndigbo at home and abroad is tied to the country's political and economic development.
It asked Igbo voters to remain politically engaged and to make independent choices based on what they expect from government.
What happens next
The presidential and National Assembly elections are set for January 16, 2027, with the governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections on February 6, 2027. Nigerians planning December and January travel should arrange their trips so they are back in time for the January 16 presidential election.
