A coalition of 21 Northern Nigeria youth organisations led by the Arewa Youth Assembly for Good Leadership has called on Nigerians to support the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) following the adjustment of the timetable for the 2027 general elections, describing the decision as a responsible move aimed at strengthening democratic participation and national cohesion.

In a press statement signed by the President of the Assembly, Abdul Garba Danbature, the groups commended the electoral body under the chairmanship of Joash Ojo Amupitan for shifting the election date from February 2027 to January 2027, noting that the move reflected sensitivity to Nigeria’s religious diversity, particularly the proximity of the earlier date to the Ramadan fasting period.

“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 read.

“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 said the earlier February timetable could have created participation challenges for millions of Muslim voters, adding that the decision to review the schedule demonstrated INEC’s commitment to inclusivity.

“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 said.

“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.”

According to the youth groups, the decision followed appeals by religious and civic leaders who urged the Commission to reconsider the election date in the interest of 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 noted.

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

The coalition urged Nigerians to set aside doubts about the Commission’s leadership, insisting that the timetable change shows that INEC is committed to credible and peaceful elections.

“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 groups said.

“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.”

They further called on citizens and political actors to embrace the adjustment as a positive development rather than politicising the issue ahead of the 2027 polls.

“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 statement said.

“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 youth organisations stressed that peaceful conduct remains essential to democratic consolidation, citing the peace advocacy of former Head of State, Abdulsalami Abubakar, as a guiding example for political leaders and citizens.

“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.

They also invoked the legacy of the late Northern Nigerian leader, Ahmadu Bello, urging Nigerians to emulate his spirit of unity and moderation.

“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 stated.

The groups urged political parties, civil society organisations, religious institutions and voters to see the timetable adjustment as a collective democratic gain and focus on peaceful participation in the forthcoming 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 conclusion, the adjustment of the 2027 election timetable stands as a reassuring affirmation that Nigeria’s democratic institutions are capable of reflection, consultation, and responsible action… Together, in unity and good faith, we can strengthen the foundations of our democracy and advance the cause of national cohesion.”