Electoral Act: ACF, CSOs disagree over Tinubu’s ‘swift’ assent
President Bola Tinubu’s rapid assent to the amended Electoral Act 2026 has generated mixed reactions across the country, with the Arewa Consultative Forum (ACF) praising the move as timely, while several civil society organisations (CSOs) argue that the process was rushed and lacked broad consultation.
The new amendment, which was recently passed by the National Assembly, seeks to adjust key timelines and operational provisions ahead of the 2027 general elections. Supporters say the changes will give the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) enough time to prepare adequately, while critics believe stakeholders were not sufficiently engaged before the bill became law.
In a statement issued shortly after the signing, the ACF commended President Tinubu for what it described as decisive leadership. The group said the swift assent would help eliminate uncertainty surrounding the electoral timetable and allow political parties and the electoral body to plan effectively. According to the forum, early legal clarity is essential for credible elections and national stability.
However, a coalition of civil society organisations expressed concern that the speed of the assent denied Nigerians an opportunity to scrutinise the amendments. The groups argued that electoral reforms should be subjected to wider public debate, particularly provisions that could affect transparency, campaign regulations, and dispute resolution mechanisms. Some CSOs also warned that frequent amendments close to an election cycle might create confusion among voters and political actors.
Legal analysts are divided on the development. While some constitutional lawyers maintain that the president acted within his powers and that the amendment aligns with existing democratic processes, others insist that greater consultation would have strengthened public confidence in the reforms.
Political observers say the disagreement reflects deeper tensions about Nigeria’s electoral system, especially as preparations for the 2027 polls begin to gather momentum. INEC officials have yet to issue a detailed public response but are expected to release implementation guidelines once the amended law is fully gazetted.
As debate continues, stakeholders across the political spectrum are calling for sustained dialogue to ensure that the new Electoral Act enhances electoral credibility rather than deepening partisan divisions.
