Bashir Ahmad has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider the dates fixed for the 2027 general elections, warning that they coincide with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan and could affect voter participation.
INEC recently announced that the Presidential and National Assembly elections will hold on February 20, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for March 6, 2027. However, Ramadan in 2027 is projected to begin around mid-February and extend into March, meaning both election days are expected to fall within the fasting period observed by Muslims.
Reacting via his official X (formerly Twitter) account, Ahmad described his intervention as a “respectful observation” rather than a political demand. He noted that Ramadan is a spiritually significant month during which Muslims fast daily from dawn to sunset, engage in extended prayers, and often reduce strenuous physical activities.
According to him, holding nationwide elections during Ramadan may pose logistical and physical challenges for many Muslim voters, especially in northern states where large segments of the population observe the fast strictly. He argued that standing in long queues under intense heat while fasting could discourage turnout and affect inclusiveness.
Ahmad stressed that Nigeria’s electoral calendar should reflect the country’s religious diversity and sensitivity to major faith observances. He maintained that adjusting the timetable—if constitutionally and logistically feasible—would demonstrate inclusiveness and strengthen public confidence in the electoral process.
He, however, acknowledged the constitutional independence of INEC and its mandate to fix election dates in accordance with the law. As of now, the commission has not indicated any intention to alter the announced schedule.
The appeal has triggered wider debate about the intersection of religion and civic duties, with some supporting the call for accommodation, while others argue that national elections must proceed within constitutional timelines regardless of religious calendars.
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