By Myke Uzendu, Abuja.
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised the decision of the APC-led 10th Senate to reject key amendments to the Electoral Act, describing the move as a deliberate attempt to weaken Nigeria’s democracy and undermine the credibility of future elections.
In a statement issued on Thursday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party condemned the Senate’s refusal to approve provisions allowing electronic transmission of election results and electronic download of voter cards, warning that the decisions would roll back hard-won gains in electoral reform.
The ADC also faulted the Senate for approving a reduction in the notice period for elections and shortening the timeline for the publication of candidates’ lists, arguing that such changes would complicate election administration and create avoidable logistical challenges for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
According to the party, the rejected reforms were designed to strengthen transparency, enhance efficiency and restore public confidence in the electoral process, but the Senate’s actions instead expanded the space for manipulation and malpractice.
“The rejection of electronic transmission of results clearly signals yet another attempt by the APC to undermine the will of the Nigerian people and manipulate future elections,” the statement said.
The opposition party accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of exploiting its majority in the National Assembly to tamper with electoral laws in order to retain power, despite what it described as the party’s declining public support.
The ADC claimed that the Senate’s decision reflected the ruling party’s fear of facing free and fair elections in 2027, particularly in light of the economic hardship and insecurity currently confronting Nigerians.
“Nigerians are aware that the APC is mortally afraid of subjecting itself to free and fair elections because of the unprecedented suffering visited on the people,” the party stated, adding that the extent of the legislative changes showed a clear intention to “cling to power by all means.”
The party further warned that rejecting reforms meant to modernise elections and strengthen INEC’s operational capacity would erode public trust and deepen voter apathy ahead of future polls.
Describing the development as “retrogressive,” the ADC called on Nigerians, civil society organisations and other stakeholders to resist what it termed legislative backsliding that threatens democratic consolidation.
The party also urged the Conference Committee on the Electoral Act to overturn the Senate’s decisions and ensure that the final amendments reflect democratic principles and the aspirations of Nigerians.
“We call on the Conference Committee to reject the Senate’s submission and pass amendments that truly strengthen electoral transparency, protect the integrity of the vote and reflect the will of the Nigerian people,” the statement added.
The ADC said it would continue to advocate for comprehensive electoral reforms, insisting that credible elections remain central to democratic stability and peaceful political competition in the country.
