The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the decision of the APC-led 10th Senate to reject key reforms to the Electoral Act, reforms aimed at improving the credibility of future elections and enhancing the efficiency of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
Describing the actions as a deliberate attempt to undermine Nigeria’s democracy, the party specifically faulted the Senate’s refusal to allow electronic transmission of election results, and the rejection of provisions for electronic voter card downloads. The party also opposed the Senate’s decision to reduce election notice periods and shorten the timelines for publication of the list of candidates.
According to the ADC, the Senate’s actions reveal the ruling party’s fear of free and fair elections in 2027 despite its political dominance. The party therefore called on the Conference Committee on the Electoral Act to overturn the decision and pass amendments that reflect democratic principles and the will of the Nigerian people.
Full Statement
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) strongly condemns the decision of the 10th APC-led Senate to reject critical provisions that would have strengthened the credibility, transparency, and integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process.
Foremost among these is the rejection of electronic transmission of election results, a move that clearly signals yet another attempt by the APC to undermine the will of the Nigerian people and manipulate future elections.
The Senate also voted against key reforms that would have allowed for electronic download of voter cards from the INEC website, reduced the notice period for elections, and shortened the timeline for publication of candidates from 150 days to 60 days.
These proposed provisions were intended to provide safeguards against electoral abuse and restore voter confidence in the electoral process. The Senate’s rejection amounts to tampering with the law, expanding opportunities for rigging, and creating logistical nightmares for INEC that will make future elections less efficient.
In sum, the APC has exploited its majority status in the National Assembly to manipulate the law and lay the ground for electoral malpractice. Nigerians are aware that the APC fears free and fair elections due to the widespread suffering it has inflicted, but this legislative interference is unprecedented.
By rejecting these reforms, the APC has betrayed public trust and signaled a desire to cling to power by all means, including legislative manipulation.
At this critical moment, all well-meaning Nigerians must hold the APC accountable for actions that weaken democracy and erode trust in the electoral system.
As Nigeria’s leading opposition party, the ADC unequivocally condemns this retrogressive action by the Senate and calls on all Nigerians to reject it.
We also urge the Conference Committee on the Electoral Act to reject the Senate’s submission and pass amendments that align with democratic principles and truly reflect the will of the Nigerian people.
Signed:
Bolaji Abdullahi
National Publicity Secretary
African Democratic Congress (ADC)
