Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently reconsider the February 20, 2027 date announced for the next general elections, citing concerns over its overlap with the Ramadan fasting period.
In a statement shared on his Facebook page on Friday, Atiku noted that the scheduled date falls within Ramadan, expected to run from February 7 to March 8, 2027 — a sacred period of fasting, reflection, and devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims.
He stressed that elections are major national exercises that require broad participation, physical stamina, and collective focus, arguing that fixing such a crucial civic activity during a significant religious observance demonstrates poor judgment and insensitivity to Nigeria’s socio-religious diversity.
“In a diverse country like Nigeria, inclusive planning is not optional; it is fundamental,” he said, adding that the choice of an acceptable election date reflects competence, foresight, and respect for citizens.
The former presidential candidate questioned the electoral body’s preparedness, warning that if INEC struggles with timing decisions, Nigerians may doubt its ability to deliver free, fair, and credible elections in 2027.