Imams Raise Alarm Over Election Scheduling, Seek Respect for Religious Calendar

  By Awwal Umar Kontagora The Association of Nigerian Imams has called on the Federal Government, political parties, and electoral authoriti...

 

By Awwal Umar Kontagora

The Association of Nigerian Imams has called on the Federal Government, political parties, and electoral authorities to adopt a more inclusive approach in scheduling major political and electoral activities, warning that current timelines increasingly conflict with important Islamic religious obligations.

The concerns were contained in a formal address signed by the National Secretary of the Association, Imam (Dr.) Umar Farooq Abdullahi (MPI), Wakilin Malaman Nupe, in which the body urged authorities to institutionalise consultations with religious stakeholders when fixing dates for elections, party primaries, conventions, and other major national engagements.

The Association noted that the timing of recent political activities, particularly party primaries and conventions, had coincided with preparations for the annual Hajj pilgrimage, thereby affecting the ability of many Muslims to fulfil one of the fundamental pillars of Islam.

According to the Imams, several public office holders, political aspirants, delegates, and politically active citizens were compelled to choose between participating in crucial political processes and undertaking the sacred pilgrimage to Makkah.

“Hajj is not merely a religious gathering but a compulsory act of worship for every eligible Muslim. For many believers, the opportunity may come only once in a lifetime,” the Association stated, stressing that avoidable scheduling conflicts should be addressed through proactive planning and coordination.

Beyond the Hajj season, the religious body also expressed concern over aspects of the electoral timetable leading to the 2027 general elections, particularly activities that may overlap with the holy month of Ramadan.

It observed that Ramadan is a period dedicated to fasting, prayer, charity, spiritual reflection, and increased devotion, making it difficult for many Muslims to fully engage in intensive political campaigns, voter mobilization, and other election-related activities.

While acknowledging efforts by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to make certain adjustments to the electoral calendar, the Association maintained that greater sensitivity is required to minimize disruptions to religious observances.

The Imams argued that a nation committed to religious freedom and inclusiveness must ensure that citizens are not unnecessarily placed in situations where civic participation conflicts with deeply held religious responsibilities.

As part of its recommendations, the Association called for the establishment of formal consultation mechanisms involving government institutions, electoral bodies, political parties, and recognised religious organisations before major national schedules are finalised.

It also advocated stronger collaboration with the National Hajj Commission of Nigeria (NAHCON), the Nigerian Supreme Council for Islamic Affairs (NSCIA), and other faith-based organisations in planning activities that may impact Hajj and Umrah participation.

Additionally, the Association urged political parties to avoid scheduling mandatory conventions, primaries, delegate elections, and other critical political engagements during the official Hajj season, while also encouraging greater consideration for Ramadan in future electoral planning.

Reaffirming its commitment to peace, national unity, interfaith harmony, and responsible citizenship, the Association emphasised that its appeal was not about seeking preferential treatment but about ensuring fairness, constitutional responsibility, and respect for religious freedoms.

The body expressed confidence that the administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would give due consideration to the concerns raised and take steps to strengthen public confidence in the fairness and inclusiveness of Nigeria’s democratic institutions.

Political observers say the call reflects a broader conversation on balancing democratic processes with the country’s religious diversity, as preparations gradually gather momentum for the 2027 electoral cycle.

As debates continue over electoral reforms and national inclusiveness, the Association of Nigerian Imams maintains that meaningful consultation and mutual respect remain essential ingredients for sustaining unity and strengthening Nigeria’s democratic culture.