President Bola Tinubu has defended his decision to sign the recently amended Electoral Act into law, stating he had “no choice” due to overwhelming legislative support and a commitment to preventing national instability.
Speaking to leaders of the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) at the State House in Abuja on Wednesday, President Tinubu explained that the National Assembly passed the legislation with a substantial majority. He said overriding the collective will of the legislature could have triggered unnecessary political conflict.
“I had no choice. I didn’t want to throw the country into turmoil of argument,” Tinubu stated. “There was an overwhelming majority in the National Assembly that passed the law. If I had serious questions or reservations, I would have raised them. But I submitted myself to the principle of the rule of law and democracy. I signed, and the rest is history.”
The president framed the decision within the broader requirements of democratic governance. He stressed that political competition is inherently challenging and that its rewards are felt primarily by victors. However, he argued that sustaining democracy necessitates compromise and mutual support among all political actors.
“The game of politics is sweet only when you’re winning,” he remarked. “We must accommodate one another. We must help one another. We must strengthen the platform. But in democracy, yes, there must be peace, stability, and commitment to the rule of law.”
The signature on the Electoral Act, which governs procedures for elections in Africa’s most populous democracy, concludes a protracted legislative process. The revised law is seen as a critical framework for future polls, aiming to address logistical and transparency issues that have historically marred Nigerian elections. Observers note that the president’s public emphasis on respecting the legislative process and prioritizing national stability signals a deliberate approach to consolidating democratic institutions following the contentious 2023 election cycle.
By highlighting the imperative of collective political support and legal adherence, Tinubu’s remarks address foundational challenges in Nigeria’s democracy. The successful implementation of the new Electoral Act will now be a key indicator of the country’s commitment to credible and peaceful electoral transitions.
