ActionAid Nigeria has condemned the swift assent of the Electoral Act (Amendment) 2026 by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The organisation called for an immediate review and amendment to protect Nigeria’s democratic integrity.
In a press statement signed by Country Director Andrew Mamedu, ActionAid expressed deep concern that the law, which will govern Nigeria’s electoral processes, became law less than 24 hours after the National Assembly passed it. The organisation warned that this rush denied statutory institutions, including the Attorney General, INEC, and the Federal Ministry of Finance, enough time to assess the legal, operational, and financial implications.
“Such haste did not permit the patience, openness, and broad consultation that legislation of this magnitude demands,” the statement read.
Civil Society Voices Ignored
ActionAid pointed out that past reforms, such as the Tax Reform Package and the Nigerian Insurance Industry Reform Act, underwent longer legislative and executive reviews. This shows that careful scrutiny is possible and expected.
“The appearance that such scrutiny may have been compressed or sidelined only deepens public suspicion and further erodes public trust,” the organisation said.
The group criticised the disregard for citizen voices. Civil society advocates had proposed safeguards based on past elections, but lawmakers ignored their input.
“To see those voices effectively disregarded is disheartening and goes a long way to dent principles of inclusivity, legitimacy, and representation in governance,” the statement added.
Risks to Democracy
ActionAid warned that if the Act remains unchanged, it could erode public trust, heighten political tension, and weaken confidence in democratic institutions.
“When citizens begin to feel that decisions of national consequence are taken without them, democracy itself is diminished,” the organisation said.
The group urged President Tinubu and the National Assembly to amend the law immediately to ensure it reflects Nigerians’ aspirations.
Key Demands
ActionAid stressed that the National Assembly must fulfil its constitutional duty to scrutinise legislation and protect democratic integrity. It specifically demanded unconditional real-time electronic transmission of results from polling units and a legislative process that prioritises citizen interests over speed.
“This is not a partisan matter. It is a matter of democratic survival and public trust. The credibility of future elections depends on Nigerians’ confidence in the laws that govern them,” the statement said.
READ ALSO:
- ActionAid Nigeria Demands Probe into Alleged NMDPRA Corruption
- 5% Fuel Tax Could Derail Economy, ActionAid Warns
- Fresh Turmoil at National Assembly as Police Fire Tear Gas at Protesters
- Protesters Demand Mandatory Real-Time Result Transmission at N’Assembly
The organisation concluded by urging Nigerians to remain engaged, vigilant, and peaceful while defending democratic principles.
“ActionAid Nigeria will stand with citizens who stand in defense of our demands as they are the true patriots of the nation,” the statement affirmed.
Esther Ososanya is an investigative journalist with Pinnacle Daily, reporting across health, business, environment, metro, Fct and crime. Known for her bold, empathetic storytelling, she uncovers hidden truths, challenges broken systems, and gives voice to overlooked Nigerians. Her work drives national conversations and demands accountability one powerful story at a time.
