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By EMMANUELOLONIRUHA

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) says it is consulting to address concerns over its just released Timetable and Schedule of Activities for the 2027 general election.

The commission said that this is particularly with regards to the dates fixed for the conduct of the elections and its overlap with the Muslim fasting period of Ramadan

It disclosed this in a statement by its National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Haruna, on Friday night in Abuja.

Haruna while noting the timetable was released in accordance with the laws, assured Nigerians that where necessary, INEC would seek appropriate legislative intervention to ensure inclusive elections.

INEC had on Friday announced that the Presidential and National Assembly elections would hold on Feb. 20, 2027, while the governorship and state assembly polls on March 6, 2027.

The commission also fixed party primaries between May 22 and June 20, 2026, for the nomination of candidates.

However, concerns have arisen from some Nigerians, especially Muslims, over the date of the general election, as they noted it falls within the holy month of Ramadan.

They emphasised that the physical demands of fasting may impact voter turnout, logistical, observers and electoral officers’ efficiency.

Notable among the voices urging INEC to reconsider the dates are a former Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, and a former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad.

Abubakar stated that the proposed Feb. 20 “falls squarely within the Ramadan period (Feb. 7, 2027 and March 8, 2027), a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims.”

Also Ahmad stated that if the intention was 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 noted that many Muslims tend to reduce engagement in demanding worldly activities during this period in order to focus on religious obligations.

“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.

“I do hope this observation will be taken in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion,” Ahmad said.

Addressing the concerns, Haruna said the timetable was developed in strict compliance with the timelines contained in the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended).

He added that it was also in compliance with the Electoral Act, 2022, and the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, 2022.

Haruna stated that the INEC Regulations and Guidelines for the Conduct of Elections, in effect since 2019, fixed the dates elections were to be held.

He quoted Paragraph 2 of the regulation as stating: “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 it also states that “election to the office of governor and deputy governor and the State Houses of Assembly shall hold two (2) weeks thereafter.”

Haruna added that, “accordingly, and in faithful observance of these extant legal and regulatory provisions, the Commission fixed Saturday, Feb. 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly Elections and Saturday, March 6, 2027, for the governorship and State Houses of Assembly Elections.

“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.”

He said that, in view of the developments, the commission was currently undertaking consultations.

He added and the commission “may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention to address the concerns raised, while ensuring that any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements.”

Haruna reiterated INEC’s unwavering commitment to transparency, inclusivity, and the credible conduct of the 2027 General Elections.

He added that the public will be duly informed of any further developments. (Text, excluding headline: NAN)

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