The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has faced criticism after announcing that Nigeria’s 2027 general elections will take place during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
On Friday, 13 February 2026, INEC Chairman Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan released the timetable and schedule of activities for the polls. The presidential and National Assembly elections are set for Saturday, 20 February 2027, while governorship and state Houses of Assembly elections will follow on 6 March 2027.
The announcement has sparked backlash, particularly because the chosen date for the presidential and parliamentary polls falls within the anticipated Ramadan period. Tentative calendars indicate that Ramadan is expected to begin around 8 February 2027 and conclude around 8 or 9 March 2027, depending on moon sightings.
Former Vice President and prominent opposition figure Atiku Abubakar was quick to voice his concerns. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) shared just hours after the announcement, Mr Atiku described the scheduling as reflecting “poor judgment” and a “troubling lack of sensitivity” to Nigeria’s socio-religious realities.
He stated: “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. 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?”
The remarks have resonated on social media, where users have expressed similar worries about potential impacts on voter turnout among Nigeria’s large Muslim population, who observe daytime fasting, reduced physical activity, and increased spiritual commitments during Ramadan.
INEC has maintained that the dates were selected in line with constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act 2022, which guide the timing of elections. The commission has emphasised the need for adequate preparation time for political parties, candidates, and voters.
Nigeria’s 2027 general elections will mark another significant test for the country’s democracy, coming after contentious polls in 2023. Questions of inclusivity, logistical readiness, and public confidence in the electoral process remain at the forefront as preparations begin.
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