The Senator representing Edo South Senatorial District, Neda Imasuen, has stated that religious observances such as Lent or Ramadan should not determine the scheduling of elections in Nigeria.
Imasuen made the remarks on Tuesday during an appearance on Arise Television’s ‘Morning Show,’ while reacting to the timetable for the 2027 general elections released by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
INEC had fixed the Presidential and National Assembly elections for February 20, 2027, while the Governorship and State Houses of Assembly elections are scheduled for March 6, 2027.
The announcement has generated criticism from various stakeholders across the country, including former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar, who urged INEC to reconsider the dates.
However, Imasuen maintained that election dates should not be adjusted based on religious activities.
“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 dates.”
