The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has responded to public concerns about its recently released timetable for the 2027 General Election, particularly the dates set for the polls.
INEC announced on Friday that it will hold the Presidential and National Assembly elections on 20 February 2027, while the governorship and state assembly elections will take place on 6 March 2027. The commission also scheduled party primaries for the nomination of candidates between 22 May and 20 June 2026.
Some Nigerians, especially Muslims, have raised concerns that the 20 February date falls within the holy month of Ramadan. They argue that the physical demands of fasting could affect voter turnout as well as the efficiency of electoral officials, observers and logistics.
Among those who voiced concerns is former Vice President and former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar. He urged INEC to reconsider the 20 February 2027 date, noting that it coincides with Ramadan, which is expected to run from 7 February to 8 March 2027. In a post on his official X account on Friday, Atiku described the period as a sacred time of fasting, reflection and devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims.
A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, also called on INEC to review the dates. In a post on X, he argued that holding such a significant national exercise during Ramadan might limit full and inclusive participation, as many Muslims reduce strenuous activities to focus on religious obligations. He suggested that the commission should consider adjusting the timetable to encourage broader participation and promote national cohesion.
In response, INEC, through a statement issued by the National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, stated that it developed the timetable in strict compliance with the 1999 Constitution (as amended), the Electoral Act 2022 and the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections 2022.
Haruna explained that the regulations, in force since 2019, stipulate that presidential and National Assembly elections must take place on the third Saturday of February in a general election year, while governorship and state assembly elections must follow two weeks later.
Accordingly, the commission fixed 20 February 2027 for the Presidential and National Assembly elections and 6 March 2027 for the governorship and state assembly polls.
However, INEC acknowledged the concerns raised by stakeholders about the overlap with recognised religious observances. The commission assured the public that it remains sensitive to issues that could affect participation and the smooth conduct of elections.
Haruna added that INEC has begun consultations and may, if necessary, seek legislative intervention to address the concerns, provided that any changes comply with constitutional and statutory requirements. He reaffirmed the commission’s commitment to transparency, inclusivity and the credible conduct of the 2027 General Election, promising to keep the public informed of any further developments.