Former Vice President and presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Atiku Abubakar, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently review the proposed date for the 2027 general elections, warning that the timing could disenfranchise millions of voters.
INEC recently fixed February 20, 2027, for the nationwide polls, but Atiku, in a statement posted on his verified X handle on February 13, raised concerns that the date falls within the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, scheduled to run from February 7 to March 8, 2027.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must urgently reconsider the February 20, 2027 date it has announced for the general elections,” Atiku wrote. “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.”
The former vice president argued that conducting elections during a period of fasting could affect voter turnout and participation, stressing that national elections require both physical stamina and broad civic engagement.
“Elections are not mere administrative rituals; they are national exercises that demand maximum participation, physical endurance, and collective focus,” he said. “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.”
Atiku further emphasized the need for inclusive planning in a country defined by its religious and cultural diversity, warning that the choice of date raises broader concerns about the commission’s preparedness for the 2027 polls.
“In a diverse country like Nigeria, inclusive planning is not optional, it is fundamental,” he stated. “Something as basic as choosing a broadly acceptable date should not be mishandled. It speaks to competence, foresight, and respect for citizens.”
He added that the situation could undermine public confidence in the electoral body if not addressed. “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?”
As of the time of filing this report, INEC has not issued an official response to Atiku’s remarks. The development, however, is likely to intensify political debate as preparations gradually begin for the next general elections, with stakeholders expected to weigh the implications of the proposed date on voter participation and national inclusiveness.
