Atiku, Other Opposition Leaders Reject Tinubu‑Signed Electoral Act 2026

Election in Nigeria

Atiku, Other Opposition Leaders Reject Tinubu‑Signed Electoral Act 2026

Nigerian opposition leaders, including former Vice‑President Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, Rotimi Amaechi, and David Mark, have rejected the recently amended Electoral Act 2026 signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, describing it as a threat to free, fair, and credible elections ahead of the 2027 general election.

The opposition bloc, comprising major parties like the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), and African Democratic Congress (ADC), criticized the speed and process through which the National Assembly passed the legislation, warning that it disproportionately benefits the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC).

At a press briefing in Abuja, Ajuri Ahmed of the NNPP alleged that the law positions President Tinubu as the sole viable presidential contender while weakening transparency. He highlighted the inclusion of a manual results transmission clause, questioning why, when statistics show results can be electronically transmitted from every polling unit, the provision was retained. (african.business)

Ahmed also cited the recent FCT Area Council elections as evidence of potential bias in the act, saying the new INEC Chairman’s performance revealed gaps in election management that could compromise future polls. He questioned the rush with which President Tinubu signed the act, contrasting it with delays on other legislative bills.

Opposition Demands

Fresh Amendment of Electoral Act: Opposition leaders insist that the National Assembly should review and amend the act to eliminate provisions that could undermine election integrity.
Mandatory Real-Time Electronic Results Transmission: They emphasized that all polling unit results should be transmitted electronically to prevent manipulation and fraud.
Transparent Candidate Nomination Processes: They called for reforms ensuring fair access for all parties, arguing current provisions favor the ruling APC. (punchng.com)

The opposition stressed that their objections are non-partisan, aimed solely at safeguarding Nigeria’s democracy, protecting voters’ rights, and ensuring credible elections in 2027. They also urged civil society groups, rights organizations, and Nigerians to support efforts for transparent and accountable electoral reforms.

The ruling APC has defended the amendments, claiming they clarify electoral procedures and strengthen the legal framework for elections. However, critics maintain that the manual results transmission provision leaves room for disputes and potential manipulation, threatening public confidence in the electoral process. (independent.ng)

The controversy surrounding the Electoral Act 2026 amendment continues to deepen political tensions in Nigeria, with the opposition insisting that fresh legislative reforms are necessary to guarantee fair and credible elections.