The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised President Bola Tinubu over his assent to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, describing the move as a setback for credible elections in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party said the president’s approval of the controversial amendment signaled what it called the “death warrant” of transparent and credible elections in the country.
ADC alleged that the swift passage and signing of the bill, despite public objections, raised concerns about the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process. The party questioned the urgency with which the amendment was approved, suggesting it was part of a broader strategy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to the statement, the amendment introduced ambiguity into the collation and transmission of election results, potentially weakening safeguards intended to strengthen transparency.
The party also criticised the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), alleging that its dominance in both the executive and legislative arms of government contributed to the rapid approval of the bill.
ADC maintained that it would mobilise Nigerians to remain vigilant and to defend democratic principles through lawful and constitutional means. The party emphasised that citizens must safeguard their rights and ensure that the will of the electorate prevails in future elections.
Similarly, the Kwankwasiyya Movement expressed concern over the accelerated assent to the amendment, warning about the implications of concentrated political power and the weakening of opposition voices in the legislature.
Several civil society organisations also raised objections to the amended law, citing fears that certain provisions could undermine electoral transparency and accountability. The groups called for stronger safeguards to ensure that future elections remain free, fair, and credible.
The development has sparked renewed debate across political and civic spaces, with stakeholders expressing divergent views on the potential impact of the amended electoral framework on Nigeria’s democratic future.
