A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission to reconsider the proposed dates for the 2027 general elections.

He noted that they fall within the holy month of Ramadan and may affect participation by Muslim voters.

INEC has fixed February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, with governorship and State Assembly polls scheduled for March 6, 2027, as part of preparations for the next general elections.

Reacting in a post shared on his verified X handle on Friday, Ahmad described his message as “a respectful observation” following the commission’s announcement.

He wrote, “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.

“The proposed dates fall within the holy month of Ramadan, a period during which many Muslims devote significant time to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.”

Ahmad added that if the intention was to encourage full and inclusive participation in the electoral process, holding such a major national exercise during Ramadan might present challenges for many Muslims.

“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.

“Many Muslims tend to reduce engagement in demanding worldly activities during this period in order to focus on religious obligations,” he stated.

He further urged the commission to consider broader participation and convenience for citizens.

“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. (The PUNCH, excluding headline)