A youth-led coalition, known as the Youth-led Electoral Reform Advocacy Consortium (YERP_Naija), has issued a compelling call to the Nigerian National Assembly, urging them to prioritize critical electoral reforms and promptly amend both the Electoral Act of 2022 and the Constitution.
Comprising several youth-focused non-governmental organizations, YERP_Naija aims to amplify the voices of young Nigerians in the ongoing discourse surrounding electoral reform within the nation.
Among its regional partners are Kimpact Development Initiative (KDI) in the North-Central and National regions, JESZ Development Foundation in the North-West, The New Generation Girls and Women Development Initiative (NIGAWD) in the South-West, Whillz Trust Foundation (WTF) in the South-South, Catch Them Young Initiative (CATYCOI) in the South-East, and Child Protection and Peer Learning Initiative (CPPLI) in the North-East.
The coalition’s official statement, signed by Bukola Idowu, Executive Director of Kimpact Development Initiative, emphasizes the urgent need for lawmakers to fulfill their commitment to electoral reform. It states:
“The future of Nigeria’s democracy hinges on a fair, transparent, and inclusive electoral system.”
The statement further asserts that Nigerian youth are closely monitoring the situation and will persistently demand these reforms until they are fully realized.
At a recent press conference held in Abuja, KDI’s Head of Research and Strategy, Oluwafemi John Adebayo, urged the National Assembly to prioritize five key electoral reform recommendations:
The establishment of an Electoral Offences Commission,Reform of the INEC leadership selection process,Post-election petition resolution, and Timely transmission of election results.
Adebayo highlighted the integrity challenges observed during the recent Edo gubernatorial election, underscoring the pressing need for comprehensive electoral reforms. He emphasized that while discussions have been ongoing, decisive action is now imperative. Nigerian youths have diligently proposed amendments to address the core challenges within the electoral process.
Transparency remains paramount throughout the reform process. Adebayo called upon the Constitution and Electoral Reform Committees to maintain open communication with the public, ensuring that the entire process remains accountable to all Nigerians.
As the 2027 general elections approach, YERP_Naija emphasizes the critical importance of timely implementation of reforms. The consortium, alongside KDI and other campaign partners, continues to drive its mission through extensive media campaigns and grassroots advocacy efforts. They engage with lawmakers, youth groups, traditional leaders, and religious figures to secure broad-based support for these essential reforms.
Adebayo also appealed to the media, urging journalists and media outlets to amplify the voices of Nigeria’s youth—the very force propelling this reform movement. Their coverage plays a pivotal role in holding leaders accountable and ensuring transparency.
YERP_Naija’s campaign for electoral reforms stands as a crucial step toward safeguarding the future of Nigeria’s democracy.
