Electoral Act Amendments Spark Concerns Over Democratic Integrity
A former Resident Electoral Commissioner (REC), Mike Igini, has voiced strong criticism regarding the recent amendments to Nigeria’s Electoral Act, labelling them a “tragedy” and a significant regression that could undermine the credibility of future elections. His remarks came during the second annual lecture hosted by the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies in Abuja.
Igini argued that the current iteration of the Electoral Act, often referred to as the 2026 amendment, has diluted the progressive provisions of the 2022 Electoral Act, which was widely considered a landmark piece of legislation for Nigeria’s electoral landscape. “The 2022 Electoral Act represents the most progressive piece of electoral legislation in our history. Regrettably, that has been watered down by the 2026 Electoral Act,” Igini stated, highlighting his disappointment.
He underscored the critical importance of the pre-election legal framework in fostering credible polls and building public confidence. According to Igini, the perception of neutrality among election administrators and all stakeholders is paramount to ensuring electoral integrity. “The first thing you must ask if an election will be credible is the legal framework that will govern it. The sanctity of laws is key to election management. If the perception is wrong, we are in trouble,” he emphasised.
A significant point of contention for Igini is the perceived increasing influence of the judiciary in determining election outcomes. He expressed deep concern that the final verdict on who wins an election is increasingly being decided in courtrooms rather than at the polling units, where citizens cast their votes. “I am worried about the expanding empire of the courts in determining who becomes the winner of elections in our country. The winner of the election must be determined finally and conclusively at the polling unit and not in the court of law,” he asserted.
Despite widespread public apprehension and opposition from various stakeholders and political parties, President Bola Tinubu signed the amended Electoral Act into law in February 2026. Igini’s vocal critique adds to the growing chorus of concerns surrounding the new legislation.
Safeguarding Elections: Adherence to Law and Enhanced Security Measures
The Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Professor Joseph Amupitan (SAN), addressed the gathering, asserting that strict adherence to the Electoral Act is the most effective defence against post-election disturbances and threats to national stability. “Strict adherence to the Electoral Act is our strongest shield against post-election unrest,” Amupitan declared. He appealed for support in refining threat assessments and deployment models to ensure security operations are precise, preventive, and effective. He also noted that ongoing security analysis precedes every election, with the Nigerian Police maintaining their own robust risk assessment mechanisms.
Amupitan reiterated that under his leadership, INEC prioritises the supremacy of the Constitution and the Electoral Act in conducting elections. He highlighted the implementation of technical safeguards designed to prevent manipulation, citing the bimodal voter accreditation system and INEC’s results management process as crucial tools aimed at combating electoral fraud and bolstering transparency.
The INEC chairman described security as an essential element throughout the entire election logistics chain, from the initial stages to the final wrap-up. He stressed the necessity of proactive intelligence gathering and robust inter-agency collaboration, facilitated through the Consultative Committee on Election Security.
Addressing Voter Apathy and Ensuring Electoral Resilience
Beyond security protocols, Amupitan pointed to voter apathy as a significant challenge that poses a security risk. He explained that declining voter participation can be exploited by non-state actors to undermine the legitimacy of governance. “Voter apathy remains a challenge. In the FCT, turnout improved from 9.4% in 2022 to 15%, yet overall participation has declined from 53% in 2011 to 26% in 2023. Low turnout is not just a civic concern; it is a security risk, as it creates narratives that non-state actors can exploit to delegitimise governance,” he warned.
Looking ahead to the 2027 general election, Amupitan assured that the commission remains committed to delivering free, fair, and credible polls, which he believes will serve as a crucial test of Nigeria’s institutional resilience. He further emphasised that credible elections not only confer legitimacy upon elected leaders but also stimulate economic development and enhance Nigeria’s standing on the international stage.
Credible Elections: A Pillar of National Security and Stability
Mike Ejiofor, President of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies, echoed the sentiment that credible elections are fundamental to national security and democratic stability, particularly as Nigeria approaches the 2027 general elections. He articulated that the integrity of the electoral process transcends mere political considerations, constituting a core security imperative. Ejiofor cautioned that flawed elections invariably lead to discontent, instability, and instances of violence.
The lecture itself was convened with the objective of fostering dialogue and generating innovative ideas aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democracy and promoting lasting national peace.
