The lawmaker representing Edo South Senatorial District, Neda Imasuen, has said that religious observances such as Lent or Ramadan should not be used as a basis for fixing Nigeria’s election dates.
Imasuen made the statement on Tuesday during an interview on The Morning Show on Arise Television, while reacting to the controversy surrounding the timetable for the 2027 general elections released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
INEC had scheduled the 2027 Presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, while the State Governorship and Houses of Assembly elections are slated for March 6, 2027.
The timetable has sparked criticism from various quarters, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who urged INEC to reconsider the schedule.
However, Imasuen maintained that elections are a civic responsibility that should transcend religious engagements.
“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.”
He stressed the need for Nigerians to prioritize democratic participation, arguing that voter turnout should not be influenced by seasonal religious activities.
