INEC announced on Friday that the presidential and National Assembly elections are scheduled for February 20, 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections will hold on March 6, 2027. Party primaries are slated between May 22 and June 20, 2026, for the nomination of candidates.
However, some Nigerians, particularly within the Muslim community, have raised concerns that the February 20 date falls within Ramadan, which is expected to run from February 7 to March 8, 2027. Critics argued that the physical demands of fasting could affect voter turnout, as well as the efficiency of electoral officers, observers, and logistical arrangements.
Among those voicing concerns is former Vice President and Atiku Abubakar, a former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP). In a post on his official X account, Atiku described the proposed date as falling “squarely within the Ramadan period… a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims.”
Former presidential aide Bashir Ahmad also urged INEC to reconsider the dates, noting that scheduling elections during Ramadan could limit participation for a significant portion of the population. His post stressed that inclusivity and national cohesion should guide the Commission’s planning.
In response, INEC, through National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, explained that the timetable was developed in strict compliance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, and the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, 2022.
Quoting the regulations, Haruna noted: “Election to the office of President and Vice President, as well as National Assembly, shall hold on the third Saturday of February of any general election year, while election to the office of Governor and Deputy Governor and the State Houses of Assembly shall hold two weeks thereafter.” Accordingly, the Commission set February 20, 2027, for presidential and National Assembly polls, and March 6, 2027, for governorship and state assembly elections.
He added that INEC is aware of concerns regarding the overlap with religious observances and other nationally recognized dates. “The Commission remains sensitive to all legitimate concerns that may affect voter participation and the overall conduct of elections,” Haruna said.
He further explained that consultations are ongoing and that INEC may, if necessary, seek legislative intervention to address the concerns, while ensuring that any adjustments remain fully consistent with constitutional and statutory provisions.
“INEC reiterates its unwavering commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of the 2027 General Election. The public will be duly informed of any further developments,” Haruna concluded.
