ADC accuses APC Senate of rejecting reforms to rig elections

Nigeria’s Opposition ADC Alleges Senate Blocking Electoral Reform

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the Senate, controlled by the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC), of obstructing efforts to improve electoral transparency by rejecting several proposed reforms to Nigeria’s electoral laws.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdulahi, the ADC contended that the Senate’s actions demonstrate an aversion to free and fair elections. The statement specifically criticized the upper chamber’s refusal to approve provisions for the electronic transmission of election results, a measure the party said is vital for curbing manipulation.

The rejected reforms, part of ongoing amendments to the Electoral Act, also included allowing electronic download of voter cards from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) website, reducing the notice period for elections, and shortening the timeline for the publication of candidates’ names from 150 days to 60 days.

The ADC argued these provisions were designed to safeguard against electoral abuse and restore public confidence in the voting process. “The Senate’s action amounts to tampering with the law, creating opportunities for rigging and imposing logistical challenges on INEC that could weaken future elections,” the statement read.

The opposition party alleged that the APC is exploiting its majority in the National Assembly to entrench electoral malpractice. “By rejecting reforms meant to improve election conduct, the APC has shown its desire to cling to power by all means,” it added.

The ADC has called on Nigerians to hold the APC accountable and urged the Conference Committee tasked with harmonizing the House and Senate versions of the Electoral Act to reject the Senate’s submissions. The party appealed for final amendments that align with democratic principles and the expressed will of the Nigerian people.

The rejection of these reforms by the Senate prolongs a contentious legislative process. Proponents of the changes, including civil society groups, have long advocated for electronic result transmission and other technology-driven measures to enhance the integrity of Nigeria’s elections, which have historically been marred by allegations of fraud and logistical shortcomings. The outcome of the Conference Committee’s negotiations will be pivotal in determining the legal framework for future polls, including the 2027 general elections.