The Lagos State chapter of Nigeria’s ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) has rejected recent calls from opposition parties to amend the 2022 Electoral Act, describing the push as a reaction to electoral defeats rather than a genuine effort to improve democracy.
In a statement on Thursday, APC Lagos spokesman Seye Oladejo criticized opposition figures for focusing on legislative changes instead of building organizational capacity. The party argued that the opposition’s poor performance in recent by-elections, including an inability to deploy sufficient polling agents, undermined their credibility to advocate for electoral reform.
According to the statement, the current Electoral Act—enacted by the National Assembly and administered by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)—should be implemented positively rather than subjected to what APC termed “empty talk” and media-driven protests. The party asserted that winning elections requires robust local support, planning, and readiness, not “dramatic anger” aimed at media attention.
The APC further contended that any future review of the law must be grounded in national interest, empirical data, and respect for institutions—not political grievances. It accused opposition groups of habitually blaming external factors while failing to develop clear policies or present substantive choices to voters.
“Democracy cannot be kept alive just by speeches and demonstrations,” the statement read, adding that a functional opposition needs vision, organizational skill, and the capacity to mobilize popular support. The party concluded by urging opponents to “stop the never-ending fighting” and engage in constructive politics that offers Nigerians viable alternatives.
The exchange highlights ongoing tensions over Nigeria’s electoral framework. The 2022 Electoral Act introduced reforms like electronic voting and improved transparency, but controversies persist. With general elections approaching, debates over legal adjustments versus strengthening party structures are likely to intensify. Observers note that the effectiveness of opposition parties in holding the government accountable may depend on their ability to move beyond protest politics toward systematic organization.
