Ex-Nigeria Vice President, Alhaji Atiku Abubakar, has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider the February 20, 2027, announced for Nigeria’s general elections, noting that it falls within the Ramadan period.

The date coincides with Ramadan, which runs from February 7 to March 8, a period of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion observed by millions of Nigerian Muslims.

Speaking on the announcement, Alhaji Atiku said, “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.”

He explained why the timing could present difficulties for Nigerians, stating, “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.”

Alhaji Atiku also highlighted the need for planning that reflects Nigeria’s diversity, saying, “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.”

He questioned what the scheduling decision means for INEC’s overall readiness, adding that “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?”

The timetable for the 2027 general elections was announced by the INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, at a press conference in Abuja on Friday, with presidential and National Assembly elections set for February 20 and governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections scheduled for March 6, 2027.

The commission said the dates were chosen in line with constitutional provisions and statutory requirements for conducting polls.

INEC also issued the Notice of Election and a comprehensive Timetable and Schedule of Activities, noting that the announcement followed widespread speculation about election dates and aimed to provide clarity. 

Prior to the announcement, INEC had previously warned the public to disregard unverified reports on election timetables and emphasised that official dates would be released through established channels at the appropriate time.