Former media aide to the late President Muhammadu Buhari, Bashir Ahmad, has attributed the noticeable voter apathy and low turnout in the recently concluded Federal Capital Territory (FCT) area council elections to the timing of the polls during the holy month of Ramadan.
In a post on X, Ahmad explained that Ramadan's demands, such as fasting from dawn to dusk, adjusted daily routines, limited physical movement during daylight hours, and heightened spiritual commitments naturally reduced participation across multiple polling units.
“One of the major factors that contributed to voter apathy in the just concluded FCT council elections was the timing within the holy month of Ramadan,” Ahmad wrote.
“For many residents, Ramadan comes with adjusted daily routines, reduced physical movement during fasting hours and increased focus on spiritual commitments. These realities, understandably, affected turnout across several polling units.”
He further urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to reconsider the scheduling of the 2027 general elections, which are set to overlap with Ramadan.
Ahmad highlighted particular concern over the governorship and state/National Assembly polls falling just two days before Eid el-Fitr, a period typically reserved for family gatherings, travel, preparations, and economic activities.
“This is why many stakeholders and observers are urging INEC to thoughtfully review the dates already announced for next year’s general elections, which will also fall within the Ramadan period,” he added.
“While civic responsibility remains paramount regardless of timing, election scheduling that is sensitive to major religious observances could significantly enhance voter turnout, inclusivity and overall democratic participation.”
The FCT council elections, held on Saturday across the six area councils, saw the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) secure victories in several key areas amid reports of general low turnout, vote buying, and other challenges.
Bashir Ahmad's comments echo broader calls from stakeholders for more inclusive electoral planning to avoid clashing with major religious observances in Nigeria's diverse society.
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