A Shari’a Court judge, Bashir Hassan Bashir, has advised that elections should ideally not be conducted during the month of Ramadan, particularly in a country with a large Muslim population.

Speaking on the issue, the judge said scheduling elections during the fasting period could pose significant physical and spiritual challenges for voters.

“I believe it is better not to fix election dates during Ramadan, especially in a nation with a substantial Muslim population,” he stated.

He explained that fasting can make the voting process physically demanding, as election days often require voters to stand in long queues under the sun, leading to fatigue and weakness for those observing the fast.

Bashir also noted that Ramadan is a period of heightened religious devotion, marked by increased prayers, Qur’an recitation and other acts of worship, which may limit public movement and engagement.

According to him, conducting elections either before or after Ramadan would likely boost voter turnout, as citizens would not be contending with the physical and spiritual demands of fasting.

“Scheduling elections outside Ramadan would promote greater ease, fairness and broader participation, benefiting not only Muslims but the democratic process as a whole,” he said.

He, however, maintained that if election dates remain unchanged, Muslims can still balance their civic obligations with their religious duties by adopting practical measures.

The judge advised voters to go to polling units early in the morning before the weather becomes too hot. He also encouraged them to maintain their health by taking a nutritious pre-dawn meal, staying hydrated before the fast begins and resting after voting where possible.

He further urged Muslims to approach voting with the right intention, describing it as both a civic duty and a means of contributing to the nation’s common good.

“Voters can combine worship with civic responsibility by engaging in supplication, remembrance of God and observing prayer times while going out to vote,” he added.

Bashir emphasised that while it is preferable to avoid election scheduling during Ramadan for greater convenience and participation, Muslims should still prepare wisely, safeguard their health and exercise their voting rights if the timetable is not adjusted, noting that voting does not invalidate the fast.

He also called on youths to support one another by assisting the elderly and those with limited strength to access polling units more easily.

Meanwhile, the Independent National Electoral Commission had earlier announced February 20, 2027, for the Presidential and National Assembly elections, with governorship and state assembly polls slated for March 6, 2027.

The dates sparked concerns about a possible clash with both Ramadan and Lenten fasting during the 2027 general elections.

Subsequently, the Nigerian Senate amended Clause 28(1) of the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Enactment) Bill 2026, granting INEC the legal flexibility to adjust the 2027 election timetable if necessary.