Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Dr. Sam Amadi, has criticised the Nigerian Senate’s repeated postponement of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, warning that the delays risk creating confusion and undermining the credibility of the 2027 general elections.

In an interview with Arise News on Sunday, Dr. Amadi said the postponement could disrupt electoral timelines, affect political party preparations, and prevent the new provisions from being properly implemented.

“The election process has many timelines, dating from the Constitution, which sets when elections must hold, time for election litigation, and swearing-in of winners,” Dr. Amadi said. “If the Electoral Act is not enacted on time, confusion and crisis are inevitable. Parties may be planning primaries without clarity on the rules, and we could repeat the mistakes of 2023 when INEC had to extend deadlines at the last minute.”

He argued that while the 2022 Electoral Act already provides for most innovations, including electronic transmission of results, INEC regulations are legally sufficient, independent, and enforceable. “The 2022 Act prescribes that INEC will transmit election results using its chosen mode. INEC can review results for several days before declaration. Delays in the amendment are unnecessary if INEC functions efficiently,” he said.

Dr. Amadi also highlighted the challenges new party delegates face under the proposed changes. “Statutory delegates have been abolished under the new law. Parties themselves are struggling to adapt. If the amendment is not passed timely, they won’t understand the new rules and could face litigation or electoral disputes,” he said.

The academic warned that the Senate’s delay could complicate the appointment and orientation of new INEC leadership, which requires adequate preparation time to ensure smooth elections. “Most commissioners are due for reappointment. They need time to learn, plan, test systems, and implement procedures effectively. Without timely enactment, INEC and political parties will face avoidable obstacles,” Dr. Amadi explained.

Asked about claims that the Senate delay aims to improve transparency and credibility, Dr. Amadi remained sceptical. “Nigeria’s electoral system already lacks credibility. The National Assembly may redeem itself by passing a well-crafted law, but given their record, I remain doubtful. The delay may ultimately undermine, rather than enhance, electoral integrity,” he said. (AriseNews TV)

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