Many Muslim stakeholders argue that holding elections during Ramadan could create significant challenges for voters, electoral staff, and security personnel who will be fasting. The physical strain of fasting—coupled with the potential need to stand in long queues under the sun—may discourage voter turnout or make it difficult for Muslims to participate fully in the electoral process. The National Missioner of Ansar-Ud-Deen Society of Nigeria, Sheikh AbdurRahman Ahmad, criticized INEC’s decision, calling it inconsiderate and disrespectful to the Muslim Ummah. He emphasized that election dates are not set in stone and urged INEC to reconsider, pointing out that adjustments have been made in previous years to accommodate various circumstances.
Sheikh Ahmad stressed that Muslims are not quick to complain when election schedules do not interfere with their religious obligations. However, when decisions appear to overlook their faith, they must speak up. He reminded INEC that millions of Nigerian Muslims are active stakeholders in the nation’s democracy and deserve to have their religious commitments respected. Elections, he noted, should encourage the widest possible participation, and scheduling them during Ramadan risks alienating a significant portion of the electorate.
Echoing these sentiments, Imam Nojeem Jimoh, the National Amir of The Companion—an association of Muslim professionals—also called on INEC to revisit the election timetable. He pointed out that the commission has previously adjusted election dates due to logistical and security concerns, demonstrating that flexibility is possible. Imam Jimoh cited the example of past administrations, including that of former President Goodluck Jonathan, where similar changes were made without controversy. He urged INEC to prioritize inclusivity and national unity by shifting the election outside of Ramadan.
To prevent future conflicts, Imam Jimoh advised INEC to engage in broader consultations with religious and community leaders before finalizing election schedules. He argued that demonstrating sensitivity to religious obligations would enhance public confidence in the electoral process. As key stakeholders, Muslim organizations play a vital role in mobilizing voters, and their input should be considered in decisions affecting the community.
Imam Jimoh further questioned why INEC would disregard the concerns of Muslims when similar considerations are routinely extended to other religious groups. He noted that elections are never scheduled on major Christian holidays like Christmas or Easter, and even weekend elections avoid Sundays out of respect for Christian worship. Given this precedent, he argued, it is only fair that Muslim observances receive the same level of consideration. A slight adjustment to the election dates, he maintained, would not disrupt INEC’s operations but would ensure that all citizens can participate fully in the democratic process.
The broader Muslim community has expressed hope that INEC will heed these appeals and act in the interest of national harmony. Many believe that a small change in the schedule would go a long way in fostering goodwill and demonstrating that the electoral body values the participation of all Nigerians, regardless of faith.
