Nigerians Urged to Demand Electoral Accountability Amid New Law
As Nigeria prepares for the 2027 general elections, a prominent political figure has called on citizens to hold the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) accountable for ensuring electoral integrity. Mr. Akin Osuntokun, a former Presidential Political Adviser and former Director-General of the Labour Party Presidential Campaign Council, now a chieftain of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), made the appeal on Friday in Lagos.
His statement follows the recent signing into law of the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2026 by President Bola Tinubu. A key point of contention during legislative debates was the absence of a provision mandating real-time electronic transmission of election results, a feature advocated by many civil society groups to enhance transparency.
Osuntokun expressed uncertainty about the practical differences between the formerly debated version and the law now in effect. “Honestly, I am a bit confused about the interpretation of this so-called Amended Electoral Act. I don’t know how much difference there is between the earlier controversial copy and the one the President has signed,” he stated.
Despite the ambiguity surrounding the legislation’s specific changes, Osuntokun emphasised that the primary responsibility for safeguarding the electoral process rests with the Nigerian public. He argued that beyond technical debates over legal text, sustained citizen vigilance is essential.
“Whatever it is the case, at the end of the day, it is up to Nigerians to hold INEC to account,” he added.
The call underscores persistent concerns about electoral transparency in Nigeria. While the amended act introduces other procedural updates, the curtailment of electronic transmission has been criticised by watchdog organisations as a step backwards for reducing result manipulation. With the 2027 polls approaching, Osuntokun’s remarks highlight a fundamental challenge: translating legal frameworks into trustworthy practice through active public oversight of INEC’s operations. The effectiveness of the new law may ultimately depend on the pressure exerted by an engaged electorate demanding clarity and integrity from their electoral managers.
