By Emem Idio, Yenagoa

As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 general elections, and as the national assembly prepares to vote on a set of constitutional and electoral reforms, a youth group known as Fringe Voices Development Foundation (Fringe Voices), the South-South Partner, Youth Political Participation (YPP) Electoral Reform Consortium, has a thrown its weight behind the establishment of an electoral offences commission, among other reforms.

Addressing newsmen in Yenagoa on Monday as part of activities to mark the “National Day of Action on Youth -Led Electoral Reforms”, the Executive Director of Fringe Voices, Tare Maureen Amananaghan,said its aligns with other youth organizations under the Youth Political Participation (YPP) Electoral Reform Consortium across the country to demand three reforms that are now before legislators.

According to Amananaghan, the three priotized reforms includes, a transparent, merit-based process for appointing INEC leadership, conclusion of all pre-, election cases before election day and resolution of post election cases before inauguration, and establishment of the Electoral Offences Commission.

Her words: “Fringe Voices, as the South-South partner of the YPP Electoral Reform. Consortium, calls on members of the National Assembly to demonstrate commitment to Nigeria’s democratic development by voting in favor of these youth-driven priorities.

“These decisions affect the stability of communities, the confidence of citizens, and the continuity of democratic governance. We also urge Nigerians, civil society organizations, journalists, and community influencers to continue amplifying these demands as the votes approach. Public pressure remains an essential counterweight that ensures elected representatives uphold national interest over partisan incentives.

“As partners under the CFLI-supported YPP Electoral Reform Consortium, we remain committed to advancing a democratic process that reflects the aspirations of Nigeria’s young population. These reforms deserve passage, not delay. The future of electoral accountability and public trust depends on the decisions made at this moment.

“These reforms respond directly to long-standing public concerns and reflect demands consistently voiced by young Nigerians who experience the consequences of political manipulation, delayed justice, and weak institutional safeguards.

“The reforms will strengthen transparency, reduce tension around elections, and improve the credibility of outcomes across all levels of government. They also offer clear benefits to lawmakers. A more trusted electoral system reduces post-election disputes, protects legitimate mandates, and lowers the political and financial cost of prolonged litigation.”