Ethnic Youth Leaders Applaud INEC Chair Over Extension Of Party Register Submission Deadline

Socio-cultural groups and ethnic youth leaders have praised Prof. Joash Amupitan, chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), following the extension of the deadline for political parties to submit their register of members.

LEADERSHIP had reported last week a statement by INEC’s National Commissioner and Chairman of the Information and Voter Education Committee, Mohammed Kudu Haruna, that the original deadline of April 21, 2026, had been extended to May 10, 2026.

The Commission explained that the new date came after consultations with leaders of political parties, which was aimed at ensuring inclusivity and giving political parties sufficient time to comply.

According to a statement by the youth leaders on Tuesday, issued by the group’s Deputy Spokesperson, Mirabel Ashara, they described the move as a “demonstration of fairness and responsiveness” by the Commission.

The group said the extension would allow political parties to conduct thorough internal audits, update their membership lists, and ensure that all eligible members were properly included.

“This decision reflects the Commission’s commitment to a credible and transparent electoral process. By listening to stakeholders, INEC is reinforcing confidence in the democratic process,” the statement added.

Advising political actors, the youth leaders called on all stakeholders to use the extension responsibly, warning that any attempt to exploit the new timeline for partisan advantage could undermine public trust in the electoral system.