The African Democratic Congress (ADC) and former Vice President Atiku Abubakar have taken opposing positions over the 2027 general election timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

In a statement issued on Friday and signed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC welcomed INEC’s decision to fix February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections.

“The African Democratic Congress, ADC, notes the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, fixing February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections,” the statement said.

The party described the early release of the election timetable as a positive development for the political process.

“We welcome the early release of the timetable, which provides political parties, stakeholders, and the Nigerian electorate with needed clarity for long-term planning and democratic preparation,” the statement added.

However, hours after the party’s position was made public, Atiku, a leading figure within the ADC, issued a separate statement rejecting the date, saying it falls within the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.

“The Independent National Electoral Commission must urgently reconsider the February 20, 2027 date it has announced for the general elections,” Atiku said.

“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 argued that conducting elections during the period could hinder participation and undermine the credibility of the exercise.

“Elections are not mere administrative rituals; they are national exercises that demand maximum participation, physical endurance, and collective focus,” he 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,” Atiku added.

He further warned that the issue raised broader concerns about the preparedness of the electoral body.

“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,” he said.

“If INEC struggles with getting a simple matter of timing right, Nigerians are justified in asking what assurance we have that it will competently deliver free, fair and credible elections in 2027.” (Saturday Vanguard)

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