INEC’s decision to shift the 2003 elections over an Easter clash has resurfaced amid fresh controversy surrounding the 2027 poll dates announced during Ramadan.
In 2003, the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) rescheduled governorship and state assembly elections after the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of Nigeria (CBCN) protested a clash with Easter. The polls were initially fixed for April 19, 2003, which fell on Holy Saturday. The bishops described the date as unacceptable and urged reconsideration in the interest of inclusiveness and national harmony.
Following consultations and public debate, INEC shifted the elections to a later date in April. The episode has resurfaced amid controversy over the 2027 general election timetable announced by INEC Chairman Joash Amupitan, with critics noting the dates fall within Ramadan. The commission says the timetable complies with extant laws but remains open to consultations and possible legislative intervention.
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