Ramadan Clash: MPAC Asks INEC to Shift 2027 Polls

By Lateef Odegbenle

Lagos, February 15, 2026 — The Muslim Public Affairs Centre (MPAC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider its proposed timetable for the 2027 general elections, citing concerns that the schedule coincides with the Muslim holy month of Ramadan and could disadvantage millions of fasting voters.

In a statement issued on Sunday and signed by its Executive Chairman, Disu Kamor, MPAC said the appeal was rooted in fairness, inclusivity and national cohesion, rather than opposition to Nigeria’s democratic process.

According to the group, conducting a nationwide election during Ramadan — a period of obligatory fasting, spiritual devotion and physical restraint for Muslims — could impose additional hardship on voters and election officials, particularly in Muslim-majority areas.

“Ramadan is not symbolic. It is a compulsory act of worship that demands physical endurance, spiritual discipline and heightened devotion,” MPAC said, noting that fasting Muslims abstain from food and water from dawn till sunset, often under intense heat conditions in many parts of Nigeria.

The organisation argued that elections in Nigeria are already physically demanding due to long queues, delayed commencement, logistical challenges and prolonged exposure to harsh weather, adding that the burden would be heavier for fasting citizens.

MPAC stressed that while participation in elections is a civic duty, the government also bears responsibility to ensure that no group is placed at a structural disadvantage in exercising that duty.

The group referenced historical precedent, recalling that in 2003, INEC adjusted its election timetable following objections by Christian leaders over a clash with Easter celebrations. At the time, the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria had described the initial schedule as insensitive to the religious commitments of a significant segment of the population.

“INEC’s decision then was widely regarded as sensitive and statesmanlike,” MPAC said, adding that a similar application of that precedent would have avoided the current clash with Ramadan.

The organisation further argued that shifting the election dates slightly would not violate any constitutional provision but would instead affirm Nigeria’s commitment to equity and inclusion. It warned that holding elections during Ramadan could lead to lower voter turnout in Muslim-majority areas, amounting to what it described as de facto disenfranchisement.

Drawing international comparisons, MPAC noted that institutions in other countries have shown sensitivity to religious observances. It cited the Joint Council for Qualifications in the United Kingdom, which has taken steps in recent years to minimise clashes between major public examinations and Ramadan.

The group also emphasised the importance of public confidence in INEC’s neutrality, warning that perceptions of religious or political bias — whether real or perceived — could undermine democratic stability.

“Muslims are not asking for preferential treatment. We are asking for equal consideration,” the statement said.

MPAC called on INEC to adjust the 2027 election timetable to fall outside the Ramadan period, engage religious and civil society stakeholders in consultations, and ensure that no religious group bears disproportionate hardship in the exercise of civic responsibility.

As of the time of filing this report, INEC had not publicly responded to the call.