The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has alleged that President Bola Tinubu signed the “death warrant” of credible elections in Nigeria by assenting to the controversial Electoral Act amendment bill. The party expressed strong opposition to the new law, warning that it could undermine the integrity of future elections.
In a statement reacting to the president’s approval of the amendment, the ADC said the changes introduced into the Electoral Act would erode public confidence in the country’s electoral process. The party argued that rather than strengthening democratic institutions, the amendment risks weakening safeguards designed to ensure transparency and fairness.
According to the ADC, credible elections are the foundation of any functioning democracy. The party maintained that any alteration to electoral laws should deepen trust in the process, not diminish it.
The party described the president’s decision to sign the bill into law as troubling. It claimed that certain provisions in the amended legislation could create room for manipulation and reduce accountability within the electoral system.
The Electoral Act serves as the legal framework guiding the conduct of elections in Nigeria. Amendments to the law often attract intense debate because of their far-reaching implications for political parties, candidates, and voters.
The ADC contended that stakeholders were not adequately carried along in the process leading to the amendment. It stressed that electoral reforms should be the product of broad consultation and consensus among political actors and civil society groups.
While acknowledging the need for periodic reviews of electoral laws, the party insisted that such reviews must enhance, rather than compromise, the credibility of elections. It called on relevant authorities to reconsider aspects of the amendment that it considers contentious.
The party also warned that perceived weaknesses in the electoral framework could fuel voter apathy and distrust. It noted that public confidence in election outcomes is essential for political stability and national cohesion.
The president’s assent to the bill follows its passage by the National Assembly. Lawmakers had debated the proposed changes before forwarding the legislation for presidential approval.
Supporters of the amendment have argued that the changes are necessary to address gaps observed in previous elections. They maintain that the revised law will streamline certain processes and clarify legal ambiguities.
However, critics such as the ADC believe the amendments may have unintended consequences. The party urged Nigerians to remain vigilant and to engage in constructive dialogue on electoral reforms.
The controversy surrounding the amendment highlights the central role of electoral legislation in shaping Nigeria’s democratic trajectory. With general elections serving as a key mechanism for leadership selection, any modification to the governing law attracts close scrutiny.
The ADC reiterated its commitment to advocating for reforms that promote transparency, accountability, and fairness. It called on other political parties and civil society organisations to scrutinise the new law and push for improvements where necessary.
As debate over the amended Electoral Act continues, attention is likely to focus on how the new provisions will be implemented. Observers say the true impact of the changes will become clearer in subsequent electoral cycles.
For now, the ADC maintains that the president’s assent represents a setback for credible elections. The party insists that safeguarding the integrity of the ballot remains a collective responsibility requiring vigilance from all stakeholders.
