A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to review the timetable for the 2027 general elections, noting that the scheduled dates coincide with the Muslim fasting month of Ramadan.
INEC had on Friday announced that the presidential and National Assembly elections would hold on February 20, 2027, while governorship and state Houses of Assembly polls are slated for March 6, 2027.
The commission’s chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, unveiled the schedule during a press briefing in Abuja.
Reacting via his verified X handle, Ahmad expressed concern that both dates fall within Ramadan, a period he described as spiritually significant for Muslims.
He noted that the month is traditionally devoted to fasting, increased prayers and reflection, warning that fixing the elections within that timeframe could pose participation challenges for many adherents.
“If the objective is to guarantee inclusive and robust voter turnout, conducting such a crucial national exercise during Ramadan may create difficulties for a considerable segment of the electorate,” he stated.
Ahmad further observed that many Muslims tend to scale back strenuous activities during the fasting period in order to focus on their religious obligations.
Given Nigeria’s sizeable Muslim population, he urged the electoral body to consider adjusting the timetable to promote wider participation and convenience for citizens.
He added that his intervention was offered in the interest of inclusiveness and national unity.