A coalition of 21 Northern Nigeria youths organisations, under the aegis of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership (AYAGL), has commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) for adjusting the timetable for the 2027 General Elections from February to January next year.
In a statement on Saturday in Kaduna, its President, Ambassador Abdul Danbature described the decision as a ‘statesmanlike gesture’ that strengthens democratic inclusion and national cohesion.
AYAGL said that the adjustment, reportedly made in consideration of the proximity of the earlier February date to the Muslim Holy month of Ramadan, demonstrated administrative foresight and sensitivity to Nigeria’s religious diversity.
According to Danbature, the initial schedule could have posed logistical and participatory challenges for Muslim faithful observing the fasting period.
‘By revising the timetable, INEC has shown commitment to inclusivity and ensured that no segment of the population is inadvertently disadvantaged in exercising its constitutional rights’, the group stated.
The coalition stated that the decision followed appeals by several stakeholders, including the Sultan of Sokoto and the leadership of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, as well as civic organisations across the country.
It said that the fommission’s responsiveness underscores the importance of constructive public engagement in a democratic system.
The group also defended INEC National Chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan, saying that the timetable adjustment reflected a balance between firmness in upholding the law and flexibility in accommodating legitimate concerns.
It called on Nigerians who may have expressed reservations about the INEC chairman’s appointment to reconsider their stance and support the commission’s efforts to deliver credible and peaceful elections in 2027.
Danbature further urged political actors and citizens alike to prioritise peace and unity, drawing inspiration from a former Head of State, General Abdulsalami Abubakar (rtd.) whose advocacy for peaceful democratic transitions was described as enduring.
The youths also referenced the legacy of the late Premier of Northern Nigeria, Ahmadu Bello, noting his commitment to unity and cross-cultural engagement across religious and ethnic lines.
They stressed that peaceful coexistence and dialogue remain essential pillars for Nigeria’s democratic consolidation, urging stakeholders — including political parties, civil society organisations, religious institutions and youth groups — to focus on issue-based campaigns and lawful mobilisation ahead of the polls.
‘The adjustment of the 2027 election timetable is not a concession to sectional interests but a reinforcement of national equity”, the group added.
The coalition reaffirmed its confidence in INEC’s leadership and called on Nigerians to prepare for what it described as a peaceful, inclusive and credible electoral process.
