2027: ‘Reschedule February 20 Presidential poll’ | ‘it clashes with Ramadan’ – Atiku urges INEC

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider the February 20, 2027 date announced for the general elections, citing its coincidence with the Ramadan fasting period.

In a post shared on his official X handle, Atiku noted that February 20 falls within Ramadan, which is expected 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. That date falls squarely within the Ramadan period, a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims,” he wrote.

The former presidential candidate argued that elections require maximum participation, physical endurance and national focus, adding that fixing the poll during a major religious observance reflects poor judgment.

“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,” Atiku stated.

He stressed that inclusive planning is essential in a diverse country like Nigeria, noting that the choice of election dates should reflect competence and respect for citizens.

“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,” he added.

Atiku further questioned the commission’s preparedness for the 2027 polls, saying that Nigerians would be justified in seeking assurances about INEC’s ability to conduct free, fair and credible elections.

“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?” he said.

INEC has yet to respond to the former Vice President’s remarks.

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