The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to postpone the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, 21 February 2026, citing the observance of Ramadan.
In a letter dated 22 January 2026, the party noted that the election date “falls within the period of the Ramadan fast, which is likely to be observed by a significant portion of the electorate in the Federal Capital Territory.”
Signed by the ADC National Chairman, Senator David A. B. Mark, and National Secretary Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola, the letter called on INEC to reconsider the timing of the polls to ensure maximum voter participation.
The party argued that “given the profound cultural and religious significance of this period, and in the interest of robust and active participation in the democratic process by all eligible voters,” it was essential for INEC to review the election timetable.
Accordingly, the ADC requested that the Commission “postpone the election to a date after the Ramadan period,” emphasising that the adjustment would promote fairness and inclusivity.
The party further explained that the request was aimed at “pursuing an inclusive electoral process that enables all eligible citizens, irrespective of faith, to fully exercise their constitutional rights without constraint or disadvantage.”
Highlighting that its approach to INEC was institutional and procedural, the ADC said it was ready to comply with all legal requirements and had sought “guidance on the procedural requirements for submitting a formal application in accordance with the Electoral Act, the Constitution, and the Commission’s guidelines.”
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, the party added that “electoral legitimacy is enhanced when processes are designed to encourage broad participation and reflect sensitivity to the social and religious realities of the electorate.”
The ADC concluded by stating that it would continue advocating for electoral arrangements that “put citizens first, respect diversity, and reinforce public confidence in democratic institutions.”
The party’s position was communicated in a press statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi.