Bashir Ahmad, a former aide to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, has raised concerns over the scheduling of the 2027 general elections.
In a message to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) via his official X handle, Ahmad warned that the proposed dates overlap with the holy month of Ramadan, potentially hindering participation among Muslim voters.
Ahmad cautioned that scheduling the 2027 general elections (February 20 and March 6) during a time of fasting and prayer may suppress voter participation.
He expressed concern that this timing threatens the goal of ensuring a representative turnout across the country.
“This is a respectful observation following the announcement of February 20th and March 6th, 2027, as the date for the next Presidential and National Assembly and Governorship and State Assembly elections respectively.
“The proposed dates fall within the holy month of Ramadan, a period during which many Muslims devote significant time to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection,” he stated.
He further suggested that the overlap could lead to reduced involvement in civic duties for a substantial portion of the populace.
“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,” Ahmad explained.
Considering Nigeria’s large Muslim community, Ahmad advocated for a possible adjustment to promote accessibility for everyone.
“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,” he added.
Ahmad stressed the importance of harmony and fairness. “I do hope this observation will be taken in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion. Thank you,” he concluded.
Persecondnews reports that INEC has formally outlined the framework for the 2027 elections, opting to separate national and state-level voting to improve management and clarity for all involved parties.
INEC Chairman Prof. Joash Amupitan, speaking at a Friday press event in Abuja, confirmed the specific dates, stating that the presidential and federal parliamentary elections are set for February 20, 2027, followed by state executive and legislative contests on March 6, 2027.
Amupitan added that the commission wrapped up its detailed election calendar and operational plan by February 4, even as revisions to the Electoral Act await National Assembly approval.
“We have submitted our proposals to the National Assembly,” Amupitan said, noting that “some items in the schedule of activities could be impacted by the time the lawmakers pass the electoral act.”
Building on initiatives from the tenure of previous Chairman Prof. Mahmood Yakubu, INEC has locked in fixed election dates for the coming 40 years to eliminate unpredictability for the electorate and streamline preparations for the body and stakeholders.
Persecondnews reports that although the decision to decouple federal and subnational elections was intended to maximize operational efficiency, its concurrence with Ramadan has become a flashpoint for online discourse.
Supporters of Ahmad’s plea argue for a delay, whereas opponents maintain that the current schedule should be upheld.
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