February 14, 2026 | SUNTV Global Channel
Former Nigerian Vice President, Atiku Abubakar, has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider the February 20, 2027 date set for Nigeria’s general elections, warning that it falls in the midst of the holy month of Ramadan.
Ramadan, observed from February 7 to March 8, is a period of fasting, prayer, and reflection for millions of Nigerian Muslims. Atiku highlighted that scheduling elections during this sacred period could hinder full participation and place unnecessary strain on citizens.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission must urgently reconsider the February 20, 2027 date it has announced for the general elections. That date falls squarely within the Ramadan period, a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims,” he said.
Atiku emphasized that elections are more than administrative exercises, stating, “They demand maximum participation, physical endurance, and collective focus. Fixing such a critical civic exercise in the middle of a major religious observance reflects poor judgment and a troubling lack of sensitivity to the nation’s socio-religious realities.”
He also stressed the importance of inclusive planning in a diverse country like Nigeria: “Something as basic as choosing a broadly acceptable date should not be mishandled. It speaks to competence, foresight, and respect for citizens.”
The former Vice President questioned INEC’s readiness for next year’s polls, adding, “If INEC struggles with getting a simple matter of timing right, Nigerians are justified in asking: what assurance do we have that it will competently deliver free, fair, and credible elections in 2027?”
The INEC Chairman, Prof. Joash Ojo Amupitan, announced the 2027 election timetable at a press conference in Abuja, with presidential and National Assembly elections slated for February 20, and governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections scheduled for March 6.
According to INEC, the dates were selected in line with constitutional provisions and statutory requirements. The commission also released the official Notice of Election and a detailed Timetable and Schedule of Activities to clarify speculation surrounding the election timeline.
