IHRC-RFT Urges Police to Reschedule Recruitment for Ramadan

The International Human Rights Commission Relief Fund Trust (IHRC-RFT) has called on the Nigeria Police Force to reschedule its recruitment exercise, currently slated to begin on March 9, 2026. This date coincides with the holy month of Ramadan, a significant period of fasting for Muslims.

Amb. Abdullahi Bakoji Adamu, the country director of IHRC-RFT, stated that the physical demands of the recruitment screening during Ramadan could pose significant hardship and inadvertently disadvantage qualified Muslim applicants.

The organization highlighted the principles of non-discrimination and equal access to public service as outlined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the 1999 Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. They urged stakeholders, including the Chairman of the Police Service Commission and the Inspector General of Police, to intervene and adjust the timeline.

The IHRC-RFT noted that even major national exercises, such as the 2027 general elections, have previously adjusted schedules to accommodate Ramadan, demonstrating that rescheduling is feasible and reflects respect for religious diversity.