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No fewer than 21 Northern Nigeria youth organisations under the leadership of the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership has thrown its weight behind the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) over the adjustment of the 2027 general election timetable, describing the decision as inclusive, responsive and in the national interest.

In a press statement signed by the President of the Assembly, Abdul Garba Danbature, the youth groups commended the electoral body chaired by Joash Ojo Amupitan for shifting the election date from February 2027 to January 2027, noting that the move reflected administrative foresight and respect for Nigeria’s religious diversity.

“We wish to commend the Independent National Electoral Commission under the chairmanship of Professor Joash Ojo Amupitan for its thoughtful and responsive adjustment of the 2027 General Election timetable from February 2027 to January 2027,” the statement said.

“This strategic recalibration, necessitated by the proximity of the earlier schedule to the holy month of Ramadan, reflects not only administrative foresight but also a deep sensitivity to Nigeria’s religious diversity and plural character.”

The coalition noted that the earlier February date would have coincided with the Ramadan fasting period, which could have made participation difficult for millions of Muslim voters across the country.

“The earlier February date posed potential logistical and participatory challenges for millions of Muslim faithful who observe the sacred fasting period with devotion and solemnity,” the statement read.

“By revising the timetable, INEC has demonstrated a commendable commitment to inclusivity, ensuring that no segment of the Nigerian populace feels inadvertently disadvantaged in the exercise of their constitutional franchise.”

The organisations said the decision came after appeals from religious and civic leaders who urged the Commission to reconsider the timetable in order to ensure wider participation.

“It is instructive to note that this adjustment followed earnest appeals by concerned Nigerians, including respected religious and community leaders such as the Sultan of Sokoto and the leadership of the Supreme Council for Sharia in Nigeria, alongside our organization and other civic stakeholders,” the statement said.

“The Commission’s decision to listen, deliberate and act reinforces the principle that democratic institutions must remain attentive to constructive public engagement.”

The youth coalition dismissed criticisms from some quarters regarding the Commission’s leadership, insisting that the timetable change showed responsibility and responsiveness.

“Widely misunderstood in some quarters, this development is in fact further evidence that Professor Amupitan is a responsible and responsive Nigerian, committed to conducting elections that are credible, peaceful and reflective of the will of the people,” the statement noted.

“Leadership, particularly in sensitive national institutions, demands both firmness and flexibility — firmness in upholding the law and flexibility in accommodating legitimate concerns that enhance democratic participation. INEC’s action embodies this delicate balance.”

Calling for national unity ahead of the 2027 polls, the coalition urged Nigerians to support the electoral body rather than politicise the decision.

“We call upon all Nigerians, especially those who may have previously harboured reservations about Professor Amupitan’s appointment, to sheath their swords and embrace this positive signal of inclusive governance,” the groups stated.

“The adjustment of the timetable is not a concession to sectional interest, but a reinforcement of national equity. From all available indications, the Commission is positioning itself to conduct one of the most credible elections in Nigeria’s democratic history.”

The coalition also stressed that peaceful conduct remains essential for democratic consolidation, citing the peace advocacy of former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, as a guiding example.

“As a nation, we must remember that peace remains the cornerstone of democratic consolidation. The enduring peace advocacy championed by General Abdulsalami Abubakar continues to remind us that nation-building has no viable alternative to dialogue, tolerance and mutual respect,” the statement said.

The groups further invoked the legacy of the late Northern Nigerian leader, Ahmadu Bello, describing him as a model of unity and moderation in leadership.

“The late Sardauna was renowned for fostering peaceful coexistence among Northerners of diverse faiths and ethnic backgrounds. His cordial relationships across religious and regional lines demonstrated that leadership is best measured not by rhetoric, but by the ability to unite rather than divide,” the coalition said.

The youth organisations urged political parties, civil society groups, religious leaders and the electorate to see the timetable adjustment as a collective democratic gain and focus on peaceful participation in the 2027 elections.

“The Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership therefore urges all stakeholders — political actors, civil society organizations, religious institutions, youth groups, and the electorate at large — to embrace this development as a collective victory for participatory democracy,” the statement concluded.

“In unity and good faith, we can strengthen the foundations of our democracy and advance the cause of national cohesion while preparing for a peaceful, inclusive and credible electoral process.”

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