‘Anti-Muslim Timetable’: MURIC Slams INEC Over 2027 Elections

‘Anti-Muslim Timetable’: MURIC Slams INEC Over 2027 Elections

The Muslim Rights Concern (MURIC) has rejected the 2027 election timetable released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), accusing the commission of acting as if there are no Muslims in Nigeria by fixing major election dates within the holy month of Ramadan.

In a statement issued on 14 February 2026, MURIC’s Executive Director, Professor Ishaq Akintola, described the timetable as exclusive, insensitive and provocative, warning that it could disenfranchise millions of Muslim voters across the country.

According to the schedule announced in Abuja on 13 February 2026 by INEC Chairman, Professor Joash Amupitan, the presidential and National Assembly elections are slated for 20 February 2027, while governorship and state assembly elections are fixed for 6 March 2027. MURIC noted that Ramadan is projected to begin around 8 February and end about 10 March 2027, meaning all major elections would take place during the fasting period.

The organisation argued that holding elections during Ramadan would impose severe hardship on Muslim voters, electoral officials, ad hoc staff and security personnel who would be fasting while participating in a physically demanding national exercise. According to MURIC, this could lead to fatigue, reduced voter turnout and heightened tension at polling units.

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MURIC further accused INEC of failing to consider Nigeria’s religious diversity, questioning whether Muslim staff or commissioners were consulted during the drafting of the timetable. The group said proper consultation with past INEC chairmen would have highlighted the need to avoid scheduling elections during major national or religious events.

The group warned that the implications of the timetable go beyond inconvenience, alleging that it amounts to religious discrimination and an attempt to alienate and disenfranchise Nigerian Muslims. It also expressed concern that fasting security personnel and election workers could face excessive stress during early-morning deployments and long election hours.

Professor Akintola added that continued disregard for Muslim concerns could fuel anger among youths, warning that frustration may escalate if the timetable is not reviewed. He maintained that the election calendar gives the impression that Muslim opinions no longer matter in government decision-making.

As of the time of filing this report, INEC has not responded to MURIC’s claims or indicated whether it plans to review the 2027 election timetable. The development has sparked debate nationwide, with growing calls for inclusive and sensitive election planning in a multi-religious society like Nigeria.

‘Anti-Muslim Timetable’: MURIC Slams INEC Over 2027 Elections