By Uzair Adam
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has called on the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reschedule the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections slated for February 21, citing the Ramadan fasting period.
The party made the appeal in a letter dated January 22 and signed by its National Chairman, Senator David Mark, and National Secretary, Rauf Aregbesola.
The letter, which was made available to journalists in Abuja on Saturday, noted that the proposed election date coincides with Ramadan, a period observed by a significant number of voters in the FCT.
ADC argued that holding the elections during the fasting period could affect voter participation, given the cultural and religious importance of Ramadan.
The party said a shift in date would better serve the interest of inclusion and ensure wider participation in the democratic process.
“It is necessary to request a reconsideration of the election date to safeguard inclusion, participation and fairness for voters across the territory during the Ramadan period,” the party stated.
The ADC, therefore, urged INEC to move the polls to a date after Ramadan, stressing that the request was guided by the need to protect inclusivity and enable citizens to fully exercise their constitutional rights.
While describing its engagement with the electoral body as institutional, the party reaffirmed its readiness to follow due process and sought guidance on the appropriate procedures for submitting such applications.
It added that electoral credibility is strengthened when processes encourage broad participation, promote diversity and boost public confidence in democratic institutions.