A Nigerian senator has rejected the use of major religious observances as a factor in setting the country’s election dates, asserting that civic duty should take precedence. Neda Imasuen, who represents the Edo South Senatorial District, stated that periods such as Lent and Ramadan should not influence the timetable for the 2027 general elections.
His comments follow the release of the election schedule by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). The commission has set February 20, 2027, for the presidential and National Assembly elections, with state governorship and Houses of Assembly elections scheduled for March 6, 2027. This timetable has drawn criticism from various stakeholders, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who has publicly called on INEC to reconsider the dates.
Imasuen offered a differing perspective in an interview on Arise Television’s ‘Morning Show’ on Tuesday. He argued that the focus should be on shifting public mindset. “We must educate and change the mindset of our people, ensuring they see elections as a civic responsibility,” he said. “Irrespective of religious engagements, it wouldn’t take much to come out and vote. So, Lent or Ramadan shouldn’t be a consideration for fixing election date.”
The debate highlights the complex challenge INEC faces in scheduling elections in a nation with significant Christian and Muslim populations. Major religious periods can affect voter turnout, campaign activities, and the logistical deployment of personnel and materials. While some advocacy groups and political figures urge the commission to avoid such dates to maximize participation, others, like Imasuen, contend that the electoral calendar should not be subject to religious considerations.
INEC has yet to issue a formal response to the growing calls for a review. The commission is historically empowered to fix election dates, though its decisions are frequently scrutinized through political, security, and now, religious lenses. The 2027 schedule will be closely monitored as Nigeria continues its democratic transition. The discussion underscores the ongoing tension between accommodating Nigeria’s diverse societal rhythms and establishing a fixed, predictable electoral framework.
