ADC Seeks Postponement Of FCT Area Council Elections, Gives Reason
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has formally requested the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to postpone the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) Area Council elections scheduled for Saturday, 21 February 2026, citing the ongoing Ramadan fast.
In a letter dated 22 January 2026, the party said the election date coincides with the Islamic holy month of Ramadan, a period observed by a significant number of voters in the FCT. The letter was jointly signed by the ADC National Chairman, Senator David A. B. Mark, and the National Secretary, Ogbeni Rauf Aregbesola.
According to the party, holding the elections during Ramadan could negatively affect voter turnout and participation. The ADC noted that, given the religious and cultural importance of the fasting period, it was necessary to reconsider the election date in order to ensure broad and active participation in the democratic process.
The party appealed to INEC to reschedule the polls to a date after Ramadan, stressing that the request was made in the interest of inclusivity and fairness. It said the aim was to enable all eligible voters, regardless of religious affiliation, to exercise their constitutional rights without undue constraints.
The ADC further stated that its engagement with the electoral body was institutional and procedural. It expressed readiness to comply with all relevant legal and administrative requirements and requested guidance from INEC on the appropriate process for submitting a formal application in line with the Electoral Act, the Constitution, and the Commission’s guidelines.
Reaffirming its commitment to democratic principles, the party said electoral credibility is strengthened when processes are sensitive to the social and religious realities of the electorate and designed to promote wide participation.
