Olawepo-Hashim Slams INEC Election Timetable, Warns of Rising Tension

Gbenga Olawepo-Hashim, a prominent figure in Nigerian politics, has voiced strong objections to the Independent National Electoral Commission's (INEC) recently released timetable for the 2027 general elections. His critique, articulated in a statement from his media office, highlights significant concerns about the legality, practicality, and sensitivity of the proposed schedule.

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The electoral schedule could fuel unnecessary political tension and destabilise political parties ahead of the next general elections if not reviewed.

Olawepo-Hashim argues that the timetable is not only unworkable but also disregards the delicate political and religious fabric of Nigeria. He warns that the compressed timeline could exacerbate political tensions and destabilize parties, particularly by scheduling crucial primary elections during periods of major religious significance. This includes the Muslim Hajj pilgrimage and Sallah festivities, which already present considerable logistical and security challenges.

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Combining election primaries with periods such as the Muslim Hajj operation and Sallah festivities, which already come with security and mobility challenges, was unreasonable.

According to Olawepo-Hashim, the tight electoral calendar fails to provide adequate time for political parties to conduct transparent primaries and other internal democratic processes. This compression, he contends, is already intensifying internal disputes within parties and placing undue pressure on their operations. He has previously appealed to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to ensure INEC adheres strictly to the Electoral Act, though he laments the lack of a presidential response.

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The tight electoral calendar did not provide enough time for political parties to conduct transparent primaries and other internal democratic processes.

From a Nigerian perspective, the timing of political activities relative to religious observances is a deeply sensitive issue. Clashes between election schedules and events like Hajj or Sallah are not merely inconvenient; they can be perceived as disrespectful and can significantly complicate participation for many citizens. Olawepo-Hashim's concerns resonate with a broader understanding of Nigeria's unique socio-religious dynamics, which Western observers might overlook. The call for a review of the timetable is thus not just a political maneuver but a plea to respect the nation's cultural and religious realities, ensuring a more stable and inclusive electoral process.

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Compressing political and religious activities within the same period unnecessarily increases national risk and could undermine stability within political parties.