Former Vice-President of Nigeria, Atiku Abubakar, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to reconsider the February 20, 2027 date announced for the next general elections, citing concerns over its overlap with the Muslim fasting period of Ramadan.
INEC had earlier released the official elections timetable, outlining dates for campaigns, voters’ registration, political parties’ primary elections and general elections.
However, Atiku Abubakar blasted INEC for fixing the elections within the holy month of Ramadan, accusing the electoral umpire of poor judgement and insensitivity to the country’s socio-religious realities.
In a post via 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.”
Atiku stressed that elections require broad participation and careful planning, warning that holding the polls during Ramadan could affect voter turnout and overall engagement.