By Peter Omopo
A former presidential aide, , has expressed concern over the newly announced dates for the 2027 general elections, noting that they coincide with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor , had earlier announced that the presidential and National Assembly elections will be held on February 20, 2027, while governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for March 6, 2027.
Reacting in a statement posted on his official X handle shortly after the announcement, Ahmad said the proposed dates fall within Ramadan, a period when Muslims devote significant time to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection.
“This is a respectful observation following the announcement of February 20th and March 6th, 2027, as the dates for the next Presidential and National Assembly and Governorship and State Assembly elections respectively,” he wrote. “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 noted that if the goal is to ensure full and inclusive participation in the electoral process, holding such a critical national exercise during Ramadan could present challenges for a large segment of the population.
He explained that many Muslim faithful typically reduce engagement in demanding worldly activities during the fasting period to focus on religious obligations. Given Nigeria’s sizeable Muslim population, he suggested that it may be worthwhile for the electoral body to reconsider the timing to promote broader participation and convenience.
“I do hope this observation will be taken in the spirit of inclusiveness and national cohesion,” he stated.
However, Ahmad added that if the election dates remain unchanged, Muslim voters would still mobilise to participate in the polls and support President .
“If INEC reconsiders the 2027 election dates it has just announced, which fall within our holy month of Ramadan, it would be a welcome decision in the interest of broader participation. However, if the dates eventually remain unchanged, we will still have the strength and energy to go out and re-elect President Bola Tinubu on February 20th, 2027,” he said.
INEC has yet to respond publicly to the concerns raised.
