The Digest:
The National Assembly will reconvene plenary on Tuesday, February 17, cutting short its recess to consider shifting the 2027 presidential election date from February 20 to February 13, sources have disclosed. The move aims to address concerns that the original date falls within Ramadan (February 7-March 8, 2027), potentially disenfranchising Muslim voters. A notice from Clerk Kamoru Ogunlana cited "very crucial decisions," with insiders confirming the session will review the Electoral Act amendment and give legislative backing to INEC's request for date adjustment. The Joint Conference Committee is also expected to meet Monday to harmonise Senate and House versions of the Electoral Amendment Bill before transmission to President Tinubu for assent. INEC had earlier signalled willingness to seek legislative intervention over the Ramadan clash.
Key Points:
- Shifting the poll to February 13 would accommodate Muslim voters observing Ramadan fasting.
- It demonstrates legislative responsiveness to religious inclusivity concerns and public pressure.
- Muslim voters gain full participation opportunity, while the electoral process gains credibility.
- This signals the National Assembly's willingness to adjust timelines for inclusive elections.
- The timing, with emergency plenary, prioritises electoral integrity over legislative recess.
If approved, the date change would mark a significant accommodation of religious considerations in Nigeria's electoral calendar, pending harmonisation and presidential assent.
Sources: The Punch, National Assembly
