The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) has announced the timetable for Nigeria's 2027 general elections, scheduling the presidential and National Assembly polls for February 20, 2027, and governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections for March 6, 2027. This announcement has ignited significant debate and criticism, primarily due to the proposed dates coinciding with major religious fasting periods for both Muslims and Christians.

INEC clarified that these dates were chosen in strict compliance with the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and Section 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022, which mandates the commission to publish election notices not less than 360 days before the polls. The Commission's Chairman, Joash Amupitan, explained that the early release aims to provide sufficient time for political parties, aspirants, and stakeholders to prepare, while also enabling INEC to conclude logistical and administrative arrangements well in advance. The regulations specify that presidential elections occur on the third Saturday of February in an election year, with state elections two weeks later.

The controversy stems from the fact that the Islamic holy month of Ramadan is projected to commence around February 8, 2027, and conclude approximately March 10, 2027, placing both election dates squarely within this period of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims. Furthermore, the Christian Lenten season is expected to begin on February 10, 2027, and extend through March 27, culminating in Easter on March 28. Analysts and stakeholders have raised serious concerns that this overlap could adversely affect voter mobilization, participation, and overall turnout, potentially disenfranchising a significant portion of the electorate.

Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar strongly urged INEC to reconsider the dates, highlighting that fixing such a critical civic exercise during a major religious observance reflects “poor judgment and a troubling lack of sensitivity to the nation’s socio-religious realities.” He stressed that elections demand “maximum participation, physical endurance, and collective focus,” which could be compromised during fasting periods. Atiku questioned INEC's competence in delivering free, fair, and credible elections if it struggles with a “simple matter of timing.”

Similarly, Akin Alabi, Chairman of the House of Representatives Committee on Works, asserted that the scheduled dates violate regulations and that the only viable solution is a swift amendment to the Electoral Act to reduce the required notice period. He warned that moving the elections earlier to precede Ramadan would contravene the 365-day notice requirement of the Electoral Act.

In response to the outcry, the House of Representatives is set to convene an emergency plenary session to deliberate on the 2027 election timetable. The House spokesperson, Akin Rotimi, stated that the session would focus on the constitutional and national implications of the timetable and determine appropriate legislative steps. This emergency sitting underscores the House's commitment to promptly address issues with far-reaching consequences for Nigeria's democratic process through responsive and responsible lawmaking.

INEC itself acknowledged the concerns raised by Muslim faithful and other stakeholders, stating that it is actively reviewing the matter and consulting on appropriate steps. The commission assured the public of its sensitivity to “legitimate concerns that may impact electoral participation and the overall conduct of elections.” It indicated that it “may, where necessary, seek appropriate legislative intervention” to address the concerns, ensuring any adjustment remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements.

The discussions surrounding the 2027 election timetable are set against a backdrop of ongoing legislative efforts to amend the Electoral Act. The House of Representatives and the Senate have passed divergent versions of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill, particularly concerning the mandatory electronic transmission of results from polling units. While the House passed a version making electronic transmission compulsory, the Senate initially rejected it before re-amending its bill to accommodate it with a caveat regarding internet connectivity. These differences necessitate a harmonisation committee from both chambers to reconcile contentious provisions, especially those related to electronic transmission.

The emergency sitting of the House is therefore expected to not only address the immediate issue of election dates but also outstanding legislative matters that will shape the legal framework for the 2027 elections. With constitutional timelines counting down, the imperative for timely and sensitive decision-making by both INEC and the National Assembly remains critical to upholding public confidence and ensuring inclusive, free, fair, and credible elections in Nigeria.