Former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to review the scheduled date of February 20, 2027, for the presidential and national assembly elections, saying it falls within the Ramadan fasting period, he said in a statement shared on Friday.

In his statement posted on social media, Atiku said the election timetable released by INEC places the presidential and national assembly polls during Ramadan, expected to run from February 7 to March 8, 2027.

He said the timing coincides with a sacred period of fasting and spiritual observance for millions of Nigerian Muslims.

Atiku said elections are major national exercises that require broad participation and physical stamina.

He pointed out that fixing the election date during Ramadan could coincide with fasting and associated religious activities, which he said Muslims observe across the country.

Atiku did not link his statement to any specific action by INEC or indicate whether he had formally submitted a request to the commission or the National Assembly. His remarks were shared publicly on his Facebook page.

The INEC timetable for the 2027 general elections fixes the presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, and the governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections for March 6, 2027.

The dates were published following provisions in the 1999 Constitution (as amended) and the Electoral Act 2022, which specify election scheduling.

INEC has acknowledged public concerns regarding the coincidence of the scheduled dates with certain holidays and observances and said it may undertake consultations and seek legislative intervention if necessary to address such matters, provided any change remains consistent with constitutional and statutory requirements.