Amanze Chinonye
A former presidential aide, Bashir Ahmad, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider the proposed dates for the 2027 general elections, citing concerns over their coincidence with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, Prime Business Africa reports.
INEC had earlier announced February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, and March 6, 2027, for the Governorship and State Assembly polls.
In a public statement addressed to the electoral body, Ahmad described his appeal as a “respectful observation” made in the interest of inclusiveness and national cohesion.
Join our WhatsApp ChannelHe noted that the proposed dates are expected to fall within Ramadan, a period when many Muslims devote significant time to fasting, prayer, and spiritual reflection. According to him, scheduling elections during the holy month may pose participation challenges for a large segment of the population.
“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 many citizens,” he stated.
READ ALSO : INEC Sets Dates For Presidential, Governorship Elections
Ahmad further stressed that election days in Nigeria typically demand significant physical and mental strength from voters, many of whom stand in queues for hours, sometimes from morning until evening, before casting their ballots.
“Every election day requires both mental and physical strength, especially with the reality of standing in queues for hours. Now imagine going through this process in the middle of the Ramadan period,” he said, describing his appeal as a gentle call for INEC to reconsider the dates in the interest of broader participation, inclusiveness and convenience for all Nigerians.
He also argued that the timing could place considerable physical and logistical strain on ad-hoc staff and security personnel, including INEC officials who would be observing the fast while undertaking demanding electoral duties.
“These responsibilities often require long hours, overnight stays at collation centres, and high levels of alertness under challenging conditions,” he noted, adding that fasting under such circumstances could affect efficiency and overall performance.
Ahmad maintained that a slight adjustment of the timetable would demonstrate sensitivity to religious observances while promoting smoother conduct of the polls.
“Our democracy is strengthened when participation is made easier for every citizen and official involved,” he added.
INEC has yet to issue an official response to the concerns raised.
Amanze Chinonye is a Staff Correspondent at Prime Business Africa, a rising star in the literary world, weaving captivating stories that transport readers to the vibrant landscapes of Nigeria and the rest of Africa. With a unique voice that blends with the newspaper's tradition and style, Chinonye's writing is a masterful exploration of the human condition, delving into themes of identity, culture, and social justice. Through her words, Chinonye paints vivid portraits of everyday African life, from the bustling markets of Nigeria's Lagos to the quiet villages of South Africa's countryside . With a keen eye for detail and a deep understanding of the complexities of Nigerian society, Chinonye's writing is both a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and a powerful call to action for a brighter future. As a writer, Chinonye is a true storyteller, using her dexterity to educate, inspire, and uplift readers around the world.
