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Atiku And Other Northern Muslims Reject INEC 2027 Elections Dates
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The announcement by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) fixing dates for the 2027 general elections has sparked widespread criticism, particularly among northern Muslim leaders and political figures who argue that the schedule coincides with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan.
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has demanded an immediate change of the date released by the Independent National Electoral Commission for the 2027 general elections, stating it falls within the Ramadan period.
“The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) must urgently reconsider the February 20, 2027 date it has announced for the general elections,” Mr Abubakar said in a statement on Friday. “That date falls squarely within the Ramadan period (February 7 – March 8, 2027), a sacred season of fasting, reflection, and spiritual devotion for millions of Nigerian Muslims.”
INEC had earlier released the official elections timetable, outlining dates for campaigns, voters’ registration, political parties’ primary elections and general elections.
However, Mr Abubakar blasted INEC for fixing the elections within the holy month of Ramadan, accusing the electoral umpire of poor judgement and insensitivity to the country’s socio-religious realities.
“Elections are not mere administrative rituals; they are national exercises that 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,” the ADC chieftain said.
While noting that inclusive planning was fundamental, the former vice president said INEC’s poor handling of election timing casts doubt on the capacity of the body to deliver free and fair elections to Nigerians.
“In a diverse country like Nigeria, inclusive planning is not optional, it is fundamental. Something as basic as choosing a broadly acceptable date should not be mishandled. It speaks to competence, foresight, and respect for citizens.
“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?” Mr Abubakar stated.
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Ramadan is a sacred period in Islam marked by fasting from dawn to sunset, increased prayers, and spiritual reflection. For many Muslims, the month involves physical restraint, heightened devotion, and communal religious activities that can be physically demanding.
Critics argue that conducting national elections during this period could suppress voter turnout, especially in predominantly Muslim regions of northern Nigeria. They maintain that elections require physical endurance, long hours at polling units, and active participation in vote protection and monitoring — activities that may prove challenging while fasting.
A statement circulating online described the move as “a troubling lack of sensitivity to Nigeria’s socio-religious realities,” emphasizing that election planning in a diverse country must take religious observances into account.
In Nigeria, where religion plays a significant role in public life, stakeholders insist that inclusive planning is not optional but fundamental to democratic credibility.
Atiku and Other Northern Voices React
Another northern commentator, Hamma Hayatu, declared confidently on social media that “the date for elections 2027 just released shall be changed,” reflecting a growing sentiment among critics that public pressure may force a review.
Several social media users echoed similar concerns, with one post reading: “There’s no way the Muslim majority will participate in the casting and protection of votes during Ramadan.”
Questions About Consultation and Planning
Observers say the controversy raises broader questions about the consultative process that preceded the announcement.
In past election cycles, INEC has often engaged political parties, civil society organizations, and security agencies in discussions around logistics and scheduling. However, critics argue that the Ramadan overlap suggests either insufficient consultation with religious and community leaders or an oversight in evaluating the socio-cultural implications of the dates.
Some commentators have framed the issue as a test of INEC’s foresight and administrative competence.
“If INEC struggles with getting a simple matter of timing right, Nigerians are justified in asking what assurance we have that it will competently deliver free, fair, and credible elections in 2027,” one political analyst wrote.
The concern is not merely symbolic. Analysts warn that even a marginal decline in voter turnout in key regions could influence electoral outcomes and fuel post-election disputes.
Risks to Voter Participation and Credibility
The primary fear expressed by critics is the potential suppression of voter turnout among Muslims observing the fast. During Ramadan, many adherents limit strenuous activities, especially under the hot sun, which characterizes much of Nigeria’s dry season in February and March.
Long queues at polling units, delays in accreditation, and potential security challenges could further discourage participation.
Election observers also note that reduced turnout in certain demographics may affect perceptions of legitimacy. In a country already grappling with concerns about voter apathy and trust in electoral institutions, any factor that appears to limit participation could undermine public confidence.
Moreover, Ramadan evenings are often dedicated to special prayers known as Taraweeh, meaning extended polling delays could clash with religious commitments.
Broader Political Implications
Beyond religious considerations, the controversy comes at a politically sensitive time as parties begin early maneuvering ahead of the 2027 race.
The northern region remains a crucial voting bloc in presidential elections. Any perception that its predominantly Muslim population is disadvantaged could become a major campaign issue.
Political strategists suggest that opposition parties may seize on the controversy to question INEC’s neutrality or competence, potentially escalating tensions.
At the same time, some voices have urged calm, noting that Ramadan does not automatically preclude civic participation and that Muslims in other countries have voted during the holy month. However, they acknowledge that Nigeria’s logistical and climatic realities differ significantly.
Pressure Mounts on INEC
As criticism intensifies, pressure is mounting on INEC to review the announced dates. Civil society groups and commentators argue that adjusting the calendar now would demonstrate responsiveness and strengthen public trust.
So far, INEC has not issued a formal statement addressing the Ramadan concerns. The Commission’s leadership may face increasing calls to clarify whether alternative dates were considered and what consultations informed the decision.
Election experts emphasize that revising the schedule at this early stage would not pose significant logistical challenges, given that 2027 is still over a year away.
A Test of Inclusivity
Ultimately, the debate over the 2027 election dates underscores Nigeria’s delicate balance of religion, politics, and democracy.
In a multi-ethnic, multi-religious society, national institutions are expected to demonstrate sensitivity to diverse realities. Critics insist that something as fundamental as election timing should reflect inclusive planning.
Whether INEC will reconsider its decision remains to be seen. However, the immediate public outcry signals that the issue resonates deeply, particularly among northern Muslim communities.
As the 2027 elections approach, the controversy serves as an early reminder that beyond logistics and ballots, the credibility of Nigeria’s democracy rests heavily on public trust — and that trust often begins with decisions that show respect for the nation’s diversity.
Tragedy truck in Wula, in Eastern Boki, Boki local government area of Cross River state when a pastor allegedly beat a 14-year-old girl, Nancy Peter to death.
The incident sparked outrage after allegations that she was first beaten by her mother and later flogged by a pastor over claims of theft.
In a statement by the Cross River State Police Relations Officer, ASP Sunday Eitokpah, he disclosed that preliminary findings indicate that the victim, identified as Miss Nancy Peter, was first assaulted by her mother, Mrs. Agnes Peter, 45, before being taken to Pastor Samson Roman Dago, 43, who allegedly subjected her to further corporal punishment with a cane.
He said a full-scale investigation has begun to really establish the exact circumstances surrounding the incident and determine the involvement of all those linked to the tragedy.
The command also dismissed, for now, social media claims that the girl was sexually assaulted, saying no evidence had been found to support such allegations.
It added that medical examinations and other investigative steps were ongoing.
Some village sources said the teenager became unconscious after the beating and was rushed to a medical facility in Wula Community, where doctors confirmed her dead on arrival.
Vanguard gathered that the community has now been left in shock, as the death has revived painful concerns about the dangers of corporal punishment and the need for greater child protection.
A child rights advocates, James Ibor esq, and principal Counsel at Basic Rights Counsel Initiative, ( BRCI)said that physical punishment does not correct children; it scars them, deepens fear, and can lead to irreversible harm.
“It is reprehensible and heartbreaking , that in 2026 this kind of barbaric act will still be happening, after the child rights act was passed since 2023.
“I’m calling on the Commissioner for police not to allow this girl’s murder to go unpunished , neither should it be forgotten like other murders of this nature.
“A child should never be disciplined to the point of collapse. This is a tragedy that should never have happened, the police must do everything possible to ensure the girl get’s justice , it is a sad development, ibor said.
President Bola Tinubu returned to Abuja on Tuesday evening after spending the Eid-el-Kabir holiday in Lagos, where he carried out a string of political and official engagements, the Special Adviser on Information and Strategy, Bayo Onanuga, said in a statement.
The President’s aircraft touched down at the Presidential Wing of Nnamdi Azikiwe International Airport at 5:17 p.m., and he was received by senior government officials, including the Minister of the Federal Capital Territory, Nyesom Wike; Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila; National Security Adviser, Nuhu Ribadu; and Inspector General of Police, Tunji Disu.
During the holiday period, Tinubu received Vice-President Kashim Shettima and other visitors during the traditional Sallah homage from several political leaders. “I thank all those who came to observe the Sallah rites with me,” the President was quoted to have said in the statement, noting the visits by top legislators and party leaders.
The President also hosted the leadership of the Senate, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and welcomed members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum under the chairmanship of Kwara State Governor, AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq. APC stakeholders from Oyo State—including the party’s governorship candidate, Sharafadeen Alli—and the party’s House of Representatives and State Assembly candidates from Lagos were among those who visited the President during the holiday.
On Monday, Tinubu attended the International Fleet Review at Eko Atlantic City Waterfront, an event marking the 70th anniversary of the Nigerian Navy. There he commissioned three naval vessels—NNS Oloibiri, NNS Mambila, and NNS Gurara—underscoring his administration’s focus on maritime security. “The commissioning of these vessels is a step toward protecting our maritime domain and supporting national security,” the President said.
Also on Monday, President Tinubu met with the President of the Republic of Benin, Romuald Wadagni, in what the statement said “reinforced the longstanding bond of friendship, regional cooperation, and economic partnership between the neighbouring countries.”
The statement added that before the holiday, the President participated in the All Progressives Congress (APC) primaries in Lagos, voting in his own primary and receiving the party’s endorsement.
The statement reiterated that President Tinubu was endorsed nationwide by close to 11 million voters as the APC’s flagbearer for the 2027 presidential election.
The Chief of the Air Staff (CAS), Air Marshal Sunday Aneke, has again reaffirmed the commitment of the Nigerian Air Force (NAF) to conducting professional, responsible, and people-centred air operations in its ongoing counter-terrorism and other security operations across the country.
Aneke also assured that the commitment of the NAF remains steadfast in its resolve to institutionalise Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response (CHMR) across all levels of operations as part of its commitment to global best practices.
The CAS made this known while declaring open the maiden NAF Seminar on Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response for strategic-level officers.
The one-day seminar, which was held at the MD Umar Blue Room, Headquarters Nigerian Air Force in Abuja, brought together an array of senior military officers, security stakeholders, policy experts, civil society representatives, journalists, and subject-matter experts to deepen institutional understanding of civilian protection considerations in contemporary military operations.
In his address at the seminar, Air Marshal Sunday Kelvin Aneke, who described the initiative as a significant milestone in the NAF’s continuous efforts to strengthen professionalism, accountability, and operational effectiveness, noted that the evolving security environment requires military leaders to balance mission accomplishment with the protection of civilian lives and property, stressing that strategic-level officers play a critical role in shaping operational decisions, institutional responses, and public narratives.
While noting that the NAF remains steadfast in its resolve to institutionalise Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response across all levels of operations as part of its commitment to global best practices, the CAS said maintaining public trust and confidence is essential to achieving lasting operational success.
He said, “Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response is not a constraint on our operational effectiveness; rather, it is a framework that enhances precision, improves decision-making, and ultimately preserves strategic legitimacy.”
He further stressed that civilian protection considerations enhance mission effectiveness by promoting informed decision-making, accountability, and operational discipline.
Earlier, in his welcome address, the Chief of Civil-Military Relations (CCMR), Air Vice Marshal Edward Gabkwet, described the seminar as a landmark initiative in the Nigerian Air Force’s ongoing efforts to strengthen professionalism, accountability, and civilian protection in military operations.
He noted that modern military operations demand a careful balance between mission accomplishment and humanitarian considerations, particularly in complex operational environments where civilians are often present.
According to the CCMR, “Operational success is not defined solely by tactical achievements, but by the ability to conduct operations with precision, discipline, restraint, and utmost regard for the safety, dignity, and wellbeing of civilian populations within areas of operation.”
Air Vice Marshal Gabkwet further highlighted the NAF’s deliberate efforts to strengthen Civilian Harm Mitigation and Response through doctrine development, training, and capacity-building initiatives. He noted that the seminar was organised at the directive of the Chief of the Air Staff to enhance strategic-level understanding of CHMR principles and equip senior leaders with practical tools for balanced, objective, and timely decision-making. He added that effective civilian harm mitigation requires collaboration among military, paramilitary, and civilian stakeholders, making the broad participation at the seminar both timely and essential.
The seminar featured presentations and discussions by renowned experts in civilian protection, human rights, and military operations, providing participants with a platform for constructive dialogue on best practices, operational lessons, and practical approaches to minimising civilian harm while maintaining operational effectiveness.
The Chief of the Air Staff expressed confidence that the outcomes of the engagement would further strengthen the Nigerian Air Force’s commitment to professionalism, operational excellence, and accountability while reinforcing its determination to protect civilians and uphold the highest standards in the conduct of air operations.
C’River: Pastor allegedly beats 14-yr old girl to death over claims of theft
Tinubu back to Abuja after Eid-el-Kabir break
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