INEC faces backlash over 2027 election dates coinciding with Ramadan

There has been outrage on social media following the announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) that the 2027 general election will be held on February 20 and March 6.

Joash Amupitan, INEC chairman, on Friday, announced at a press conference in Abuja that the presidential and national assembly elections would be held on February 20, 2027.

The INEC chairman added that the governorship and state houses of assembly elections would be held on March 6, 2027.

He said the dates were fixed in accordance with the provisions of the 1999 Constitution (as amended).

However, the dates fall within the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, which is expected to commence on February 8, 2027, and end around March 10, 2027, according to the 1448 AH Islamic calendar.

Reacting on X, Bashir Ahmad, former presidential media aide, said the timing may present challenges.

“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,” Ahmad wrote.

“I assure you that the date for elections 2027 just released shall be changed,” Hamma Hayatu, a public affairs analyst, wrote.

“Presidential election is in Ramadan not even that the Gubernatorial election day is on sallah day.”

Sarki, another user, said, “The current Christian INEC chairman has already shown his hand by fixing the presidential election during Ramadan.”

Muwafaq Lawal also questioned the feasibility of the schedule, saying, “I don’t know the algorithm used by INEC in selecting this election dates come 2027 but it certainly doesn’t look feasible.”

Aliyu ATK wrote, “There’s no way the Muslim majority will participate in the casting and protection of votes during Ramadan in 2027.”

“Elections during Ramadan is unprecedented and Unacceptable,” wrote another user with the name Dr Bello MZ.

“Elections MUST be moved to before or after Ramadan like all previous years!!!”

The reactions have triggered debate over inclusiveness and voter participation ahead of the 2027 general election. (The Cable)