The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider the date of the forthcoming Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections, citing the Ramadan fasting period.
INEC had scheduled the polls for Saturday, February 21, 2026, a date that coincides with Ramadan, a sacred period observed by Muslims across the country and beyond.
In a statement released on Saturday, ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, said the party formally communicated its concerns to INEC in a letter dated January 22. He noted that the appeal was motivated by the need to ensure inclusiveness and unhindered participation in the electoral process.
According to Abdullahi, the letter—signed by ADC National Chairman, Senator David A. B. Mark, and National Secretary, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola—highlighted that a significant number of eligible voters in the FCT may be affected if the elections hold during Ramadan.
The party stressed that the spiritual and cultural importance of the fasting period could limit voter turnout, making it necessary to adjust the election timetable in the interest of fairness and participation.
ADC therefore called on INEC to shift the elections to a date after Ramadan, assuring the Commission of its readiness to follow all due processes and legal requirements.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, the party said credible elections are best achieved when electoral arrangements are sensitive to the social and religious realities of the people.
The ADC added that it would continue to push for electoral processes that promote inclusion, respect diversity, and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democracy.
ADC Appeals to INEC for FCT Election Shift Over Ramadan
