Nigeria’s 2027 Polls Under Review as National Assembly, Independent National Electoral Commission Weigh Ramadan Date Shift!
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Nigeria’s 2027 Polls Under Review as National Assembly, Independent National Electoral Commission Weigh Ramadan Date Shift!
Reported by Mustapha Labake Omowumi (Journalist) | Sele Media Africa
Nigeria’s electoral timetable for the 2027 general elections is under fresh scrutiny as the National Assembly and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) deepen consultations over concerns that the scheduled polls may clash with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan.
Lawmakers have reportedly convened an emergency plenary session, cutting short their recess, amid strong indications that the presidential election date initially set for February 20, 2027 could be moved forward to February 13, 2027.
Why the Date Review Is Under Consideration
INEC had earlier fixed February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections, with governorship and state assembly polls scheduled for March 6, 2027, in line with constitutional timelines and the Electoral Act.
However, the timetable has drawn criticism from Islamic organisations and political stakeholders who argue that holding the elections during Ramadan could dampen voter turnout among Muslim faithful observing the fast.
Responding to the concerns, INEC confirmed that consultations are ongoing and noted that any formal adjustment to the election calendar would require legislative backing.
Legislative Momentum Builds
Sources within the National Assembly indicate that the emergency session is primarily intended to provide the legal framework necessary for any timetable modification requested by the electoral commission. The initiative is being positioned as part of broader efforts to guarantee inclusive participation and safeguard the credibility of the 2027 polls.
Political pressure has also intensified. Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has publicly urged INEC to reconsider the schedule, warning that the Ramadan overlap could negatively affect nationwide voter participation.
INEC’s Position
The commission maintains that the existing timetable strictly complies with constitutional provisions and the Electoral Act 2022. Nonetheless, INEC has signalled openness to a review should the National Assembly amend the relevant legal framework.
Election analysts note that any shift, particularly a one-week advancement, would require swift logistical adjustments but could enhance voter inclusivity if carefully implemented.
What Comes Next
The joint conference committee of both legislative chambers is expected to harmonise outstanding provisions in the Electoral Act amendment before forwarding the final bill to the presidency for assent.
If approved, the change would represent one of the rare instances in Nigeria’s recent electoral history where the national timetable is revised primarily to address religious observance and participation concerns.
Sources: Punch, Premium Times, Channels Television, TheCable, Tribune Online, ARISE News
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