Nigeria Moves 2027 Elections to January to Avoid Ramadan

The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and the National Assembly have proposed new dates for the 2027 elections to avoid a clash with the Ramadan fasting period. The presidential election is now scheduled for January 16, 2027, and the governorship election for January 30, 2027.

This decision comes after significant consultations among lawmakers and electoral officials, as the previously scheduled dates in February attracted strong reactions due to the overlap with Ramadan, expected from February 7 to March 8, 2027. Concerns were raised about voter turnout, particularly among Muslim populations in northern states, with former Vice President Atiku Abubakar criticizing the February dates.

The National Assembly has resumed its session to formalize this proposal, which requires legislative approval. The earlier dates were set for February 20 for the presidential election and March 6 for the governorship elections, but these have been deemed untenable.