The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has said it is consulting stakeholders following concerns over the overlap between the 2027 General Election timetable and the holy month of Ramadan, assuring Nigerians of its commitment to inclusiveness and equal access.

INEC had announced that the Presidential and National Assembly elections would be held on 20 February 2027, while the governorship and state assembly elections are scheduled for 6 March 2027. The commission also fixed party primaries between 22 May and 20 June 2026 for the nomination of candidates.

However, some Nigerians, particularly Muslims, have raised concerns that the election dates fall within Ramadan, noting that fasting could affect voter turnout as well as the efficiency of electoral officials, observers and logistics.

Among those who raised concerns is former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party, Atiku Abubakar, who urged the commission to reconsider the 20 February date.

In a post on his official X handle on Friday, Atiku said the proposed 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.”

A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, also appealed to INEC to review the timetable.

Tagging the commission in his post on X, Ahmad wrote, “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.”

Responding, INEC said the timetable was drawn up in strict compliance with constitutional and legal provisions.

In a statement issued on Friday, National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, said the schedule was based on 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.

He explained that the regulations, in force since 2019, stipulate the timing of general elections.

Quoting paragraph two of the regulation, Haruna said: “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 (2) weeks thereafter.”

He added, “Accordingly, and in faithful observance of these extant legal and regulatory provisions, the Commission fixed Saturday, February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly Elections and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections.

“Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Commission has taken due notice of concerns expressed by stakeholders regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognised holidays and observances.

“The Commission wishes to assure the public that it remains sensitive to all legitimate concerns that may impact electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections.”

Haruna said the commission had begun consultations and may seek legislative intervention if necessary.

“In view of the developments, the Commission is currently undertaking consultations and may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the concerns raised, while ensuring that any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements,” he said.

“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.”