The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has noted public concerns about the scheduling of the 2027 general elections, which coincide with the holy month of Ramadan, a time of fasting and prayer for Muslims, and has stated that it will seek legislative intervention if necessary.
Mohammed Kudu Haruna, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, announced this in a statement issued on Friday.
The commission explained that the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general election were created in strict accordance with the Federal Republic of Nigeria’s Constitution, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, and INEC’s own Guidelines and Regulations for the Conduct of Elections, 2022.
The statement emphasized that the regulations and guidelines, adopted since 2019, define the dates for elections.
“Election to the office of President and Vice President, as well as the National Assembly, shall be held on the third Saturday of February of any general election year, while election to the Office of Governor and Deputy Governor and the State Houses of Assembly shall be held two (2) weeks thereafter,” it said.
As a result, INEC set Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections, and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for the gubernatorial and state House of Assembly elections.
However, the commission acknowledged public concerns about the scheduling of the elections, which fall during the holy month of Ramadan.
INEC stated that it is sensitive to such considerations and remains open to adjustments.
“Notwithstanding the foregoing, the commission has taken due notice of concerns expressed by stakeholders regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognized holidays and observances.
“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.
“In view of these representations, the commission 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,” the statement said.
INEC reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and credible conduct of the 2027 general elections, promising to keep the public informed of any changes.
The commission had previously scheduled party primaries for candidate nominations from May 22 to June 20, 2026, in conjunction with the general election dates.
Recall that former presidential contender Atiku Abubakar and former presidential adviser Bashir Ahmad have urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to reconsider the February 20, 2027 date set for the next general elections.
They voiced concern that the timetable coincided with the holy month of Ramadan, which may limit Muslim voter turnout.
