Ramadan: Why INEC should review 2027 election dates — Bashir Ahmad

A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider the proposed dates for the 2027 general elections, noting that they fall within the holy month of Ramadan.

Tribune Online reports that INEC recently fixed February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, while governorship and State Assembly polls are scheduled for March 6, 2027, as part of preparations for the next general elections.

Reacting to the announcement on his verified X handle on Friday, Ahmad described his remarks as a respectful observation and urged the commission to take the religious commitments of many citizens into consideration.

Ahmad said the timing could affect Muslim voters’ participation, as Ramadan is a period when many devote significant attention to fasting, prayer and spiritual reflection.

He explained that if the goal is to ensure full and inclusive participation in the electoral process, conducting such a major national exercise during Ramadan may create difficulties for a large segment of the population.

According to him, many Muslims often reduce engagement in demanding worldly activities during the period in order to focus on their religious obligations.

Ahmad further appealed to INEC to consider the convenience of all citizens, given Nigeria’s significant Muslim population, and to review the timing to promote broader participation and national cohesion.

He tweeted, “Dear @INECNigeria

“This is a respectful observation following the announcement of February 20th and March 6th, 2027, as the date for the next Presidential and National Assembly and Governorship and State Assembly elections respectively. The proposed dates fall within the holy month of Ramadan, a period during which many Muslims devote significant time to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.

“If the intention is to encourage full and inclusive participation in the electoral process, scheduling such a critical national exercise during Ramadan may present challenges for a large segment of the population. Many Muslims tend to reduce engagement in demanding worldly activities during this period in order to focus on religious obligations.

“Given the significant Muslim population in this country, it may be worthwhile to reconsider the timing to ensure broader participation and convenience for all citizens. 

“I do hope this observation will be taken in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion.”