The Convener of the Arewa Think Tank, Muhammad Alhaji Yakubu, has thrown his weight behind President Bola Tinubu for signing the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) into law, describing the move as a courageous and forward-looking step toward strengthening Nigeria’s democratic framework.

President Tinubu appended his signature to the amended Electoral Act at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, barely 24 hours after its passage by the National Assembly.

While opposition parties, including the Peoples Democratic Party, and some civil society organisations have criticised the development, Yakubu said such reactions were “politically motivated and bereft of objective reasoning.”

In a statement issued on Friday, Yakubu commended the President for demonstrating decisive leadership at a critical time in the nation’s democratic journey. He noted that democracy is an evolving process and that periodic amendments to the Electoral Act are essential to address emerging challenges and realities.

According to him, the amendment reflects a pragmatic understanding of Nigeria’s current technological and infrastructural limitations, particularly concerning real-time electronic transmission of election results.

“It is easy to demand advanced technological solutions without honestly assessing the country’s preparedness,” Yakubu stated. “President Tinubu has shown responsibility by acknowledging the gaps in broadband infrastructure and technical capacity. Laws must be rooted in practical realities, not mere political sentiments.”

The Arewa Think Tank Convener argued that rushing into full electronic transmission without adequate infrastructure could jeopardise the credibility of elections rather than enhance it.

He maintained that strengthening institutional capacity and ensuring gradual, sustainable reforms would better serve Nigeria’s democracy.

Yakubu also dismissed claims that the amendment was designed to favour the ruling party ahead of the 2027 general elections, describing such allegations as speculative and lacking evidence.

“The narrative that this law is a strategy to manipulate future elections is unfounded. Electoral integrity is not guaranteed solely by technology but by strong institutions, transparent processes, and the collective will of stakeholders to respect the rule of law,” he said.

He further praised the synergy between the Executive and the National Assembly in ensuring timely legislative action, stressing that prompt assent to duly passed bills reflects respect for constitutional processes.

Yakubu called on opposition parties and civil society groups to engage constructively with the new law rather than resort to alarmist rhetoric.

He urged all political actors to focus on issue-based campaigns and internal party democracy in preparation for 2027.

“The real test of democracy lies not in endless suspicion but in participation, vigilance, and adherence to the law. With continuous reforms and stakeholder engagement, Nigeria’s electoral system will only grow stronger,” he added.

The Arewa Think Tank reaffirmed its commitment to supporting policies and legislative measures aimed at deepening democratic governance, national stability, and inclusive political participation across the country. (The Sun)

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