The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the decision of the APC-led 10th Senate to reject key amendments to the Electoral Act, describing the move as a calculated attempt to weaken Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday by ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party faulted the Senate’s refusal to approve electronic transmission of election results and provisions for the electronic download of voter cards from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) portal. It also criticized the reduction of election notice periods and the shortening of timelines for the publication of candidates’ lists.
According to the ADC, the rejected proposals were designed to enhance transparency, boost voter confidence, and improve INEC’s operational efficiency. The party alleged that by throwing out the reforms, the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) was laying the groundwork for electoral manipulation.
“The rejection of electronic transmission of results clearly signals another attempt to undermine the will of the Nigerian people,” the statement said, adding that the changes would expand opportunities for rigging and create logistical challenges for INEC.
The ADC further accused the APC of using its majority in the National Assembly to tamper with electoral laws in order to cling to power, insisting that the move reflected fear of free and fair elections in 2027 amid widespread public dissatisfaction.
Calling the Senate’s action “retrogressive,” the opposition coalition party urged Nigerians to resist any steps that weaken democratic institutions and erode trust in the electoral process. It also appealed to the Conference Committee on the Electoral Act to overturn the Senate’s decisions and pass amendments that align with democratic principles and reflect the will of the people.
Nigerian Newssphere reports that the Senate on Wednesday amended that electoral law, rejecting mandatory electronic transmission of election results.
However, Senate President Godswill Akpabio clarified that the Senate did not reject electronic transmission of election results.
