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Middle Belt youths warn that comments against the INEC chairman could undermine confidence in the 2027 general elections
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Group says inflammatory rhetoric risks fuelling political and religious tension ahead of the polls
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Youth leaders urge restraint, dialogue and respect for democratic institutions
The Middle Belt Youths Forum has cautioned the Supreme Council for Shari’ah in Nigeria (SCSN) over comments perceived as questioning the legitimacy of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Saturday and signed by its leader, Comrade Meliga Godwin, the group expressed concern over remarks attributed to the Shari’ah Council suggesting that sections of the Nigerian Muslim Ummah might reject any election conducted under the current INEC chairman, Prof. Joash Amupitan.
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The forum warned that such statements, if left unaddressed, could weaken public confidence in the electoral process and further heighten political and religious tensions across the country.
According to the group, Nigeria’s democracy is founded on constitutional order, the rule of law and the independence of institutions such as INEC, stressing that attempts to cast doubt on the credibility of the electoral body ahead of a national poll could pose risks to national stability.
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The youths urged socio-religious organisations, political actors and other stakeholders to exercise restraint in public commentary, noting that divisive rhetoric could deepen existing fault lines rather than strengthen democratic engagement.
They called for constructive dialogue and lawful engagement, emphasising that disagreements should be addressed through established democratic channels rather than public pronouncements capable of inciting distrust.
The forum also appealed to INEC, civil society organisations and security agencies to remain vigilant and committed to delivering a transparent, inclusive and credible electoral process, adding that peaceful elections require collective responsibility.
Reaffirming their commitment to national unity, the Middle Belt youths urged Nigerians to embrace peaceful coexistence, mutual respect and active participation in the democratic process as preparations for the 2027 general elections continue.