Fresh controversy is trailing the 2027 general election timetable as Bashir Ahmad, former aide to late President Muhammadu Buhari, urges the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider its chosen dates.
INEC had announced February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, and March 6, 2027, for Governorship and State Assembly elections.
But Ahmad says the timing clashes with the holy month of Ramadan, and that could affect voter turnout.
MUK TV reports that in an open letter shared on his Facebook page, he described his intervention as a “respectful observation” but made it clear that the issue is significant.
“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,” he wrote.
Ahmad warned that scheduling such crucial national exercises during Ramadan may limit participation among Muslim voters who devote the period to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
“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,” he stated.
He added that many Muslims deliberately scale down demanding activities during the holy month.
“Many Muslims tend to reduce engagement in demanding worldly activities during this period in order to focus on religious obligations.”
Calling attention to Nigeria’s large Muslim population, Ahmad suggested that INEC reconsider the dates in the interest of fairness and unity.
“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 ended on a conciliatory note, expressing hope that his concerns would be viewed positively.
“I do hope this observation will be taken in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion.”
