Atiku Urges INEC to Shift 2027 Election Date Over Ramadan

Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently reconsider the February 20, 2027 date announced for the next general elections, warning that the timing clashes with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

In a strongly worded statement signed and released on Friday, Atiku argued that the scheduled date falls squarely within the 2027 Ramadan period, expected to run from February 7 to March 8, describing the decision as insensitive to Nigeria’s socio-religious realities.

According to him, elections are not mere administrative exercises but critical national engagements that require “maximum participation, physical endurance, and collective focus.” Holding such a significant civic process during a month of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims, he said, reflects poor judgment.

“In a diverse country like Nigeria, inclusive planning is not optional; it is fundamental,” Atiku stated, stressing that choosing a broadly acceptable date should not be mishandled in a plural society.

The former presidential candidate further questioned INEC’s preparedness for the 2027 polls, arguing that if the electoral body could falter on what he described as a “simple matter of timing,” Nigerians are justified in demanding assurances about its ability to conduct free, fair, and credible elections.

INEC had earlier announced February 20, 2027, as the date for the presidential and National Assembly elections, formally setting the stage for the country’s next electoral cycle.

Atiku’s remarks are expected to reignite debate over election logistics, religious considerations, and voter participation ahead of the 2027 general elections.