Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has asked the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider the schedule for the 2027 general elections, warning that the timeline overlaps with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
INEC announced on Friday that presidential and National Assembly elections will be held on February 20, 2027, with governorship and State Houses of Assembly polls set for March 6, 2027, in line with constitutional provisions.
The timetable has drawn criticism, as Ramadan is projected to run from about February 8 to March 10, meaning both election dates fall within the fasting period.
In a statement, Atiku said the February 20 poll falls “squarely within the Ramadan period,” noting that the season is marked by fasting, reflection and spiritual devotion for millions of Muslims across Nigeria. He argued that elections demand broad participation and physical stamina, making the timing inappropriate.
“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,” he said.
The former Vice-President maintained that inclusive decision-making is essential in a plural society, stressing that accommodating diverse public interests reflects administrative foresight. He questioned INEC’s competence if it could not address what he described as a basic issue of timing, asking what assurances Nigerians have about the credibility of the 2027 polls.
