Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar on Friday urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider its recently released timetable for the 2027 general elections.
Atiku made the call in a statement he personally signed, which was posted on his verified Facebook page.
However, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) chieftain’s stance differs from his party’s initial reaction to the timetable.
At a media briefing at its headquarters in Abuja on Friday, INEC Chairman Professor Joash Amupitan released the timetable for next year’s general elections.
He announced that the commission fixed February 20, 2027, as the date to conduct the presidential and National Assembly elections, and March 6, 2027, for governorship and State Assembly elections.
Reacting, Atiku said INEC must reconsider the February 20, 2027 date for the presidential and National Assembly elections, as it coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, when Muslims across the country will be observing the annual period of fasting.
The 2027 presidential hopeful said, “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.”
