2027: Why Elections Cannot Hold as Scheduled by INEC – Atiku

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently reconsider its decision to hold the 2027 general election on February 20, 2027, warning that the date clashes with the Ramadan fasting period.

In a statement issued on Friday, Atiku expressed concern that the scheduled date falls within Ramadan, which is expected to run from February 7 to March 8, 2027. He described the timing as insensitive to the religious obligations of millions of Nigerian Muslims.

The former presidential candidate stressed that in a plural and diverse society like Nigeria, inclusive planning is fundamental to the credibility of the electoral process.

According to him, choosing a broadly acceptable date for general elections should not be mishandled, as it speaks to the electoral body’s competence and foresight. Atiku argued that the decision raises broader concerns about INEC’s preparedness for the 2027 polls.

He called on the commission to demonstrate flexibility and respect for citizens by reviewing the election timetable to ensure that it does not disenfranchise any segment of the population.

The statement reads: “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 (February 7 – March 8, 2027), a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims.

“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.

“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.

“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?”

INEC had earlier fixed February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections as part of the timetable for the next general polls. The commission has yet to formally respond to Atiku’s concerns.