Olawepo Hashim Critiques INEC’s 2027 Election Timetable
Former presidential candidate Gbenga Olawepo Hashim has expressed strong disapproval of the timetable for the 2027 general election announced by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). He described the schedule as illegal, impractical, and detached from Nigeria’s political and religious landscape.
Potential for Increased Political Tensions
Olawepo Hashim cautioned that if the election calendar remains unchanged, it could lead to unnecessary political tensions and destabilize parties as they prepare for the upcoming general election. He stressed the need for a timetable that accommodates the complexities of the country’s political environment.
Concerns Over Timing with Religious Observances
The former presidential candidate highlighted the impracticality of scheduling electoral primaries alongside significant religious events, such as the Islamic Hajj and the Salah festival. He noted that these periods typically involve their own security and logistical challenges, which the election process should not compound.
Call for Transparency in Party Primaries
According to Olawepo Hashim, the tight timeline impairs political parties’ ability to conduct transparent primaries and engage in internal democratic processes. He mentioned that the current situation is exacerbating internal conflicts within various parties and increasing pressure on party leadership.
Letter to the President and Lack of Response
Previously, Olawepo Hashim sent an open letter to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, urging INEC to adhere to electoral laws while implementing the election dates. Unfortunately, he has yet to receive any feedback from the president regarding his concerns.
Risks Associated with Combining Electoral Activities and Religious Events
Olawepo Hashim criticized the election commission for scheduling politically sensitive activities, such as party primaries, during major religious events. He argued that this combination heightens potential tensions and could lead to chaos, particularly given the existing logistical challenges posed by these religious observances.
Adherence to Electoral Law Is Crucial
He maintained that the electoral law provides sufficient timeframes for parties to finalize their nominations without resorting to what he termed a “chaotic timetable.” Referring to Article 29, Paragraph 1 of the Election Law, he emphasized that political parties must submit their candidates’ names at least 120 days before the elections, allowing ample time for primaries to take place before mid-September.
Olawepo Hashim concluded by warning that failing to reconsider the election calendar could exacerbate political tensions and erode public trust in the electoral process ahead of the pivotal 2027 general election.
