ADC Chieftain Suggests Postponement of FCT Council Elections Due to Ramadan

Laden Salihu, a prominent figure within the African Democratic Congress (ADC), has publicly advocated for the relocation of the FCT Area Council elections from the holy month of Ramadan. His primary concern is that conducting the polls during this period of religious observance could result in a substantial decrease in voter participation, thereby undermining the overall credibility of the electoral outcome. The ADC has formally communicated this request, signed by its senior leadership, emphasizing a desire for inclusivity and understanding towards Muslim voters, while asserting that the appeal is not driven by political opportunism.

In a recent interview with Arise News, Salihu elaborated on the implications of Ramadan fasting, which commences at dawn and concludes around six or seven in the evening. He pointed out that the combination of fasting and the particularly intense heat expected during February and March could impose considerable physical strain on voters, making participation in a lengthy electoral process arduous.

"During Ramadan, Muslim faithfuls observe fasting from dawn to about six or seven in the evening. In that period, the elements of fatigue, weakness, and frailty under the intense heat will be evident. Any Muslim going out to vote will be subjected to these conditions. The number of turnouts will be significantly low, to the extent that it may impinge ultimately on the credibility of the voters."

He stressed that the proposal for a delay is an earnest appeal for consideration, not a strategic maneuver for political gain. "It is just an appeal for Nigerians to understand and appreciate the exigencies, the difficulties, and the physical demands that Muslims will have to go through. The weather is intensely, almost unbearably hot, and people queue from early morning to go through the entire process of registration, voting, counting, and collation. It is only reasonable," he stated.

Addressing potential concerns about the impact on non-Muslim voters, Salihu clarified that religious considerations are valid grounds for postponement, not mere pretexts. "If elections can be postponed for other reasons, they can be postponed for religion. The letter is an appeal. We are not trying to enforce our own request on the independent national electoral commission or Nigerians. It is an appeal for INEC to understand the weaknesses and physical trauma Muslims face in fulfilling their civic responsibilities."

He concluded by underscoring that the request is founded on principles of compassion and respect for religious practices. "We’re just talking about empathy. We’re just talking about understanding. The attitude of live and let live as Nigerians, irrespective of our religious persuasions, should prevail."

Through Laden Salihu, the ADC has formally requested that the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) reconsider the scheduled date for the FCT council elections, taking into account the observance of Ramadan. This initiative highlights the ongoing challenge of balancing religious observances with civic duties within Nigeria's electoral framework and seeks to ensure that all citizens can participate fully and comfortably.