The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has responded to growing public concerns over the dates fixed for the 2027 General Election, following criticism that the schedule coincides with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
INEC released its Timetable and Schedule of Activities, announcing that the Presidential and National Assembly elections will be held next year, with the governorship and State Houses of Assembly polls scheduled two weeks later. The commission also fixed party primaries for this year to enable political parties to nominate their candidates ahead of the polls.
However, the announcement sparked reactions from sections of the public, particularly Muslim groups, who expressed fears that holding nationwide elections during Ramadan could affect voter turnout, logistics, and the efficiency of electoral officials and observers due to the physical demands of fasting.
Among prominent voices raising concerns is former Vice President and former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar. In a post on his official X (formerly Twitter) handle, Atiku urged INEC to reconsider the election date.
“The proposed date falls squarely within the Ramadan period, a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims,” he wrote.
A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, also appealed to the commission to review the timetable in the interest of inclusiveness.
Tagging INEC in his post, Ahmad said: “If the intention is to encourage full and inclusive participation in the electoral process, scheduling such a critical national exercise during Ramadan may present challenges for a large segment of the population. Many Muslims tend to reduce engagement in demanding worldly activities during this period in order to focus on religious obligations.
“Given the significant Muslim population in this country, it may be worthwhile to reconsider the timing to ensure broader participation and convenience for all citizens. I do hope this observation will be taken in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion.”
Responding to the concerns, INEC said the election timetable was drawn up strictly in line with existing legal provisions. In a statement issued on Friday, the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, explained that the schedule complies with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, and INEC’s Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections.
According to Haruna, the regulations clearly stipulate the sequencing of elections. He cited Paragraph Two of the guidelines, which states: “Election to the office of President and Vice President, as well as National Assembly, of any general election year, while election to the office of Governor and Deputy Governor and the State Houses of Assembly shall hold two (2) weeks thereafter.”
He added, “Accordingly, and in faithful observance of these extant legal and regulatory provisions, the Commission fixed next year for the General Election for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, and two weeks later for the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections.”
Nevertheless, Haruna acknowledged the concerns raised by stakeholders over the overlap of the election dates with religious observances.
“Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Commission has taken due notice of concerns expressed by stakeholders regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognised holidays and observances,” he said.
He further assured Nigerians that INEC remains open to dialogue, noting that the commission is currently consulting relevant stakeholders and may seek legislative intervention if adjustments become necessary.
“The Commission wishes to assure the public that it remains sensitive to all legitimate concerns that may impact electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections,” Haruna stated. “INEC reiterates its unwavering commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of next year General Election. The public will be duly informed of any further developments.”
