Former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), to urgently reconsider the February 20, 2027 date announced for the next general elections, describing it as insensitive and poorly judged.
INEC had fixed February 20, 2027 for the nationwide polls, a date that falls within the Ramadan period, scheduled to run from February 7 to March 8, 2027.
Atiku to to his verified X handle arguing that conducting elections during Ramadan could negatively affect participation and undermine inclusivity in the electoral process.
According to him, fixing such a crucial civic activity in the middle of a major religious observance reflects poor judgment and a lack of sensitivity to Nigeria’s socio-religious realities.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must urgently reconsider the February 20, 2027 date it has announced for the general elections. That 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.
“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.
“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.
“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?,” the statement read.
