Atiku urges INEC to reconsider 2027 election timetable over Ramadan concerns

A former presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to reconsider the February 20, 2027 date announced for the next general elections, citing concerns over its overlap with the Muslim fasting period of Ramadan.

Recall that INEC had scheduled the 2027 general elections to hold on February 20, 2027, while governorship and state assembly polls will be held on March 6, 2027.

The commission also fixed party primaries between May 22 and June 20, 2026, for the nomination of candidates.

In a post via his official X (formerly Twitter) handle on Friday, Atiku said the proposed date falls “squarely within the Ramadan period (February 7 – March 8, 2027), a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims.”

The former Vice President stressed that elections require broad participation and careful planning, warning that holding the polls during Ramadan could affect voter turnout and overall engagement.

He said, “Elections are not mere administrative rituals; they are national exercises that demand maximum participation, physical endurance, and collective focus.

“Fixing such a critical civic exercise in the middle of a major religious observance reflects poor judgment and a troubling lack of sensitivity to the nation’s socio-religious realities.”

The 2023 presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party further argued that inclusive planning is essential in a diverse country like Nigeria.

“In a diverse country like Nigeria, inclusive planning is not optional, it is fundamental. Something as basic as choosing a broadly acceptable date should not be mishandled. It speaks to competence, foresight, and respect for citizens,” he stated.

Questioning the electoral body’s preparedness, he added, “If INEC struggles with getting a simple matter of timing right, Nigerians are justified in asking: what assurance do we have that it will competently deliver free, fair, and credible elections in 2027?”