ADC Writes INEC On FCT Area Council Poll, Seeks Postponement, Citing Ramadan

By Ayodele Oni

The Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, 21 February 2026, is being threatened as the period falls on the Muslim fasting period, Ramadan.

Already, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally written to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), requesting the postponement of the FCT Area Council elections.

In a letter dated 22 January 2026 and jointly signed by the National Chairman of the party, Senator David Mark, and the National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola, the ADC drew the Commission’s attention to the fact that the proposed election date falls within the period of the Ramadan fast, which is observed by a significant segment of the electorate in the FCT.

The party noted that, given the deep religious and cultural significance of Ramadan, holding elections during this period could adversely affect voter turnout and participation.

It stressed that, in the interest of promoting robust and inclusive participation in the democratic process, a reconsideration of the election date was both necessary and appropriate.

Accordingly, the ADC respectfully requested that INEC reschedule the elections to a date after the Ramadan period, to ensure that all eligible voters are able to exercise their constitutional rights without undue constraint or disadvantage.

The party further emphasized that its request was motivated by the need to safeguard inclusivity in the electoral process, underscoring that democracy is best strengthened when electoral arrangements are sensitive to the social and religious realities of the electorate.

In the letter, the ADC also affirmed its institutional and procedural engagement with the Commission, expressing its willingness to comply fully with due process and requesting guidance on the applicable procedural requirements for submitting a formal application in line with the Electoral Act, the Constitution, and INEC’s guidelines.

The ADC reiterated its commitment to the consolidation of Nigeria’s democracy, noting that electoral legitimacy is enhanced when processes are designed to encourage broad participation, respect diversity, and inspire public confidence in democratic institutions.