The Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN) and Islamic leaders have raised concerns about the 2027 presidential and National Assembly elections scheduled for February 20, which falls during the holy month of Ramadan and the Christian Lent fasting period. Stakeholders have shared different opinions on the matter.
Daniel Atori, Media Aide to the Niger State CAN Chairman, said Lent has never stopped Christians from voting in Nigeria.
Speaking to Newsmen, he emphasized that Christians are committed to their civic duties regardless of fasting periods.
“At times, elections have happened during Lent, and Christians have always participated fully,” Atori said. He recalled that in the 2023 general elections, some elections were held during Lent, as well as in 2019 and 1999.
He advised the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to follow constitutional rules rather than religious concerns when fixing election dates.
Ibrahim El Mu’azzam, an Islamic cleric in Kaduna and founder of the El-Mu’azzam Foundation, said holding elections during Ramadan is not forbidden by Islam but could affect voters’ energy levels. “Muslims may feel physically weak during the day because of fasting,” he said.
However, he added that this would not significantly reduce voter turnout, though it could slightly lower enthusiasm. He also recommended that INEC consult Islamic bodies like Jama’atu Nasril Islam before finalizing dates to ensure inclusiveness.
Barrister Usman Yau, a legal expert from Jigawa State, said religion cannot legally justify shifting the elections.
Under the Electoral Act 2022, INEC alone has the authority to fix or adjust election dates. “Section 28 of the Electoral Act lists specific reasons for postponement, such as natural disasters, disease outbreaks, or security concerns.
Religion is not included,” Yau explained. He acknowledged that holding elections during Ramadan could affect voter turnout, especially among women and election officials who will be fasting, but stressed that the law is clear.
He also reminded that Nigeria is a secular state and cannot shift elections due to religious observances.
Some Nigerians have criticized INEC for scheduling the elections during Ramadan. Zulaihat Danjuma, a resident of Kano, said it shows cultural insensitivity and could make voting difficult for Muslim voters and staff who are fasting.
INEC announced the presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, and governorship and State Assembly elections for March 6, 2027.
The commission said it is aware of public concerns and is consulting stakeholders. Any changes will remain within constitutional and legal limits. INEC reaffirmed its commitment to transparent, inclusive, and credible elections.
