INEC Responds to Concerns Over 2027 Election Dates

The Independent National Electoral Commission has responded to concerns raised by some Nigerians, including former presidential candidate Atiku Abubakar, over the dates fixed for the 2027 general elections.

The reaction followed the announcement that the Presidential and National Assembly elections will be held on February 20, 2027, while the governorship and state assembly polls will take place on March 6, 2027.

The debate is centered on the timing of the elections, which some believe may fall within the period of Ramadan.

INEC had earlier released its timetable, stating that political party primaries would run from May 22 to June 20, 2026. After the announcement, concerns emerged, especially from Muslim stakeholders, who argued that the February date may clash with the fasting period.

They expressed fears that fasting could reduce voter turnout and affect the performance of election officials and observers.

Atiku Abubakar publicly called on the commission to reconsider the February 20 date, saying it falls within the expected Ramadan period in 2027.

Bashir Ahmad, a former aide to late President Muhammadu Buhari, also appealed to the commission to review the schedule, noting that many Muslims usually reduce physical activities during the fasting month.

According to him, adjusting the date could allow wider participation in the election process.

In response, INEC, through its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, explained that the election timetable was prepared in line with the 1999 Constitution as amended, the Electoral Act 2022, and the commission’s regulations and guidelines.

He stated that the rules guiding elections since 2019 provide that presidential and National Assembly polls are to be conducted on the third Saturday of February in an election year, while governorship and state assembly elections are to follow two weeks later.

Based on these legal provisions, the commission fixed February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections and March 6, 2027, for the governorship and state assembly elections.

INEC added that it is aware of the concerns raised by stakeholders regarding possible overlaps with religious observances and other national events.

The commission said it is consulting with relevant groups and may consider seeking legal adjustments if necessary, provided that any change remains within constitutional and legal boundaries.

INEC also assured Nigerians that it remains committed to conducting the 2027 general elections in a fair and credible manner and will keep the public informed of any updates regarding the timetable.