Gen Z Leaders Call for Inclusive Approach to Select Next INEC Chairman

By: Aremu Toyeebaht

A coalition of Gen Z activists and student groups has urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to convene a national town hall meeting to discuss the appointment process for the next Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

The coalition said the call became necessary to ensure that the selection of the new electoral chief is transparent, inclusive, and credible as the tenure of the current INEC Chairman, Professor Mahmood Yakubu, draws to a close in 2025.

Team Lead of the coalition, Mr. Joseph Agama, said the movement was inspired by widespread disillusionment with past elections and a shared desire for accountability in the country’s electoral process.

“We made it clear that Nigerian Gen Zs are not apathetic to the electoral process — we are simply tired of a system we cannot trust,” Agama said.
“Our generation is bold, informed, and ready to shape Nigeria’s future. But credible elections must begin with a truly independent INEC.”

He added that the coalition had reviewed the Citizens’ Memorandum for Reform of the Electoral Legal Framework, which contains 31 key recommendations for improving Nigeria’s elections.

“At the heart of these reforms is one truth — INEC must be truly independent and professional to inspire voters’ trust,” he said.

Another member of the coalition, Ms. Virtue Utuk, appealed to President Tinubu to “lead differently” by involving multiple stakeholders in the appointment process.

“The appointment of the next INEC Chairman and Commissioners cannot remain business as usual,” Utuk stated.
“We demand an inclusive process involving traditional and religious institutions, civil society, and the Nigerian people themselves.”

She emphasized that the group is seeking a historic town hall meeting with the President, where citizens—especially young Nigerians—can directly engage on the future of electoral leadership.

“The decision will shape the integrity of the 2027 elections. Credible elections are the lifeblood of democracy,” she added.

Also speaking, Mr. Raphael Udie, a member of the coalition, revealed plans to mobilize Gen Zs nationwide to promote civic education and trust in the electoral process.

“We’re enlightening young Nigerians about why credible elections matter. When they see transparency in leadership appointments, it restores confidence and reduces voter apathy,” Udie said.

The youth coalition’s advocacy reflects a growing national push for deeper electoral reforms and stronger inclusion of young voices in governance. With the 2027 general elections approaching, the Gen Z movement could play a defining role in reshaping Nigeria’s democratic future.