2027 polls: INEC consults over Ramadan overlap, promises equal access

Amupitan

By KEMI KAYODE

The Independent National Electoral Commission has addressed concerns over its recently released Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 General Election, particularly regarding the dates fixed for the conduct of the elections.

INEC had on Friday announced that the Presidential and National Assembly elections would hold on February 20, 2027, while the 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.

However, concerns have arisen from some Nigerians, especially Muslims, over the date of the general election, as they noted it falls within the holy month of Ramadan. They emphasised that the physical demands of fasting may impact voter turnout, logistical, observers and electoral officers’ efficiency.

Notable among the voices is a former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, who urged the commission to reconsider the February 20, 2027 date, citing concerns over its overlap with the Muslim fasting period of Ramadan.

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.”

A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, also urged INEC to reconsider the dates.