Sacred Month, National Vote: Atiku Warns INEC Not to Gamble With Nigeria’s Stability
By Passman Akpos
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to urgently reconsider its scheduled date for the 2027 general elections, warning that the timing clashes with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and could undermine voter participation.
INEC had earlier announced February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, with Governorship and State Houses of Assembly polls slated for March 6, 2027. The announcement was made by INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, during the formal release of the Notice of Election and the comprehensive Timetable and Schedule of Activities in Abuja.
However, in a strongly worded statement, Atiku argued that the February 20 date falls squarely within the Ramadan period, expected to run from February 7 to March 8, 2027 — a sacred season of fasting, reflection and spiritual devotion observed by millions of Nigerian Muslims.
“Elections are not mere administrative rituals; they are national exercises that demand maximum participation, physical endurance, and collective focus,” Atiku said. “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.”
He stressed that in a diverse and multi-religious country like Nigeria, inclusive planning must be treated as a fundamental principle of governance rather than an afterthought.
“Something as basic as choosing a broadly acceptable date should not be mishandled. It speaks to competence, foresight, and respect for citizens,” he added.
The former presidential candidate further questioned the Commission’s preparedness for the 2027 polls, arguing that if INEC could overlook what he described as a “simple matter of timing,” Nigerians would be justified in demanding stronger assurances regarding the credibility of the elections.
Earlier, INEC had described the release of the timetable as a “significant milestone in our democratic journey” and stated that the decision complied strictly with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria and Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act, which mandates the publication of election notices not later than 360 days before the polls.
The development has sparked debate among political stakeholders and civil society groups, with growing calls for broader consultation to ensure that the 2027 elections are not only constitutionally sound but also socially inclusive and widely acceptable.
