Olawepo-Hashim Critiques INEC's 2027 Election Timetable

Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a former presidential candidate, criticized the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for its election timetable for the 2027 general elections, describing it as unlawful and unworkable given Nigeria's political and religious realities. He warned that the tight electoral calendar could fuel unnecessary political tension and destabilize political parties ahead of the elections.

Olawepo-Hashim highlighted that the schedule does not allow sufficient time for political parties to conduct transparent primaries and adhere to democratic processes. He expressed concerns about the timing of party primaries coinciding with significant religious events, such as the Muslim Hajj and the Sallah festival, which already pose logistical and security challenges.

In a statement issued through his media office, he noted that the Electoral Act provides adequate timelines for parties to complete their nomination processes without resorting to a chaotic timetable. Olawepo-Hashim urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure INEC complies with the provisions of the Electoral Act, lamenting the lack of response to his earlier open letter.