Ramadan: INEC may seek legislative intervention on 2027 polls dates

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has acknowledged public concerns over the timing of the 2027 general elections, which coincide with the holy month of Ramadan, a period of fasting and prayers for Muslims.

This was contained in a statement by the National Commissioner; and Chairman, Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, on Friday.

The commission said it may seek legislative intervention, if necessary, as the Ramadan set on lunar calendar calculation may begin on Sunday February 7 or Monday February 8, 2027.

The INEC had on Friday fixed Saturday, February 20, 2027 for the presidential and National Assembly elections, and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for the governorship and state Houses of Assembly Elections.

This means that electioneering and other activities for the elections would fall within the Ramadan period.

The commission had earlier scheduled party primaries between May 22 and June 20, 2026, for the nomination of candidates, alongside the general election dates.

The commission had explained that the Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 general election was developed in strict compliance with the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended), the Electoral Act, 2022, and INEC’s own Guidelines and Regulations for the Conduct of Elections, 2022.

The statement highlighted that the Regulations and Guidelines, issued since 2019, prescribe the dates for elections:

“Election to the office of President and Vice President, as well as National Assembly, shall hold on the third Saturday of February of any general election year, while election to the Office of Governor and Deputy Governor and the State Houses of Assembly shall hold two (2) weeks thereafter,” it said.

However, the commission acknowledged public concerns regarding the timing of the elections, which coincide with the holy month of Ramadan.

INEC said it is sensitive to such considerations and remains open to adjustments.

“Notwithstanding the foregoing, the commission has taken due notice of concerns expressed by stakeholders regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain nationally recognised holidays and observances.

“The commission wishes to assure the public that it remains sensitive to all legitimate concerns that may impact electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections.

“In view of these representations, the commission is currently undertaking consultations and may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the concerns raised, while ensuring that any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements,” the statement said.

The commission reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of the 2027 general elections, promising to keep the public informed of any changes.