The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it will approach the National Assembly over the 2027 election timetable, after complaints that the chosen dates sit smack in the middle of Ramadan.
INEC’s current plan puts the presidential and National Assembly elections on Saturday, 20 February 2027, and the governorship and state house of assembly polls two weeks later, on Saturday, 6 March 2027—a period many Muslims devote to fasting and prayer.
Muslim groups and politicians say turnout could crash, especially in the north. Atiku Abubakar, former vice-president, has asked the Commission to rethink, arguing that inclusivity should trump the calendar. Bashir Ahmad, ex-presidential aide, points out that voters, poll workers and security teams who are fasting may struggle with the long hours and physical demands of election day.
In a statement released by National Commissioner Mohammed Kudu Haruna, INEC insists the schedule follows the rules: the 1999 Constitution, the Electoral Act 2022 and the Commission’s own guidelines drawn up in 2019. Those rules say the presidential vote must be held on the third Saturday in February of an election year, with state polls two weeks after.
The statement concedes, however, that “representations have been made regarding the coincidence of the dates with nationally recognised religious observances.” INEC says it is “currently undertaking consultations and may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the concerns raised, while ensuring that any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements.”
Members of the House of Representatives are expected to take up the matter when they reconvene next week.
