Political Parties Unite for Electoral Reform
In a significant development, political parties united under the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) have voiced strong opposition to the recently amended Electoral Act 2026, advocating for swift revisions to safeguard the nation's democratic future.
Concerns Over Democratic Integrity
At a pivotal meeting with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) in Abuja, IPAC's National Chairman, Dr. Yusuf Mamman Dantalle, emphasized the Act's regressive nature, warning that it jeopardizes the integrity of the highly anticipated 2027 General Election.
Dr. Dantalle highlighted the immense pressure the Act places on political parties, particularly those outside the government, and stressed the need for inclusivity to foster a robust democratic environment.
Key Demands for Electoral Reform
- IPAC urged the National Assembly to reinstate indirect primaries, emphasizing that candidate selection methods should be party-driven rather than legislated.
- The Council called for the immediate elimination of the NIN registration deadline to prevent voter disenfranchisement.
- They demanded mandatory electronic transmission of results to the IReV portal, ensuring transparency.
- IPAC advocated for an Electoral Offences Commission to combat vote-buying and stricter penalties for electoral malpractice.
The Council's appeal to international partners underscores the urgency of these reforms to maintain Nigeria's democratic health and transparency.