By Myke Uzendu, Abuja
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has requested that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), postpone the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, February 21, 2026, citing the Ramadan fast.
In a letter dated January 22, 2026, and jointly signed by the party’s National Chairman, Senator David Mark, and National Secretary, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the ADC drew INEC’s attention to the religious significance of the Ramadan period and its possible impact on voter participation in the FCT.
The party noted that the proposed election date falls within the period of Ramadan, which is observed by a large segment of the electorate in the territory. According to the ADC, holding the polls during the fasting period could limit robust participation and undermine inclusiveness in the democratic process.
The party therefore urged the electoral commission to reconsider the date and reschedule the elections for a period after Ramadan to ensure that all eligible voters are able to freely and fully exercise their constitutional rights.
The ADC stressed that its request was guided by the need to protect inclusivity and fairness in the electoral process, adding that democratic legitimacy is strengthened when election timelines reflect the social and religious realities of the electorate.
It also described its engagement with INEC as institutional and procedural, stating its readiness to comply with all relevant laws and guidelines. The party requested guidance from the commission on the formal requirements for submitting its application in line with the Electoral Act, the Constitution and INEC regulations.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic values, the ADC said it would continue to advocate electoral arrangements that promote broad participation, respect religious and cultural diversity, and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions. broad participation, respect religious and cultural diversity, and strengthen public confidence in Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
