The Senate has defended the Electoral Act, 2026, following criticism from opposition parties and civil society groups who question several provisions in the law. Senate President Godswill Akpabio stated the legislation was developed in line with constitutional processes and judicial precedents, emphasizing that inputs were received from stakeholders during deliberations. He noted that the Act aligns with the 2023 electoral reforms roadmap agreed upon by political parties, security agencies, and the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Some controversial clauses include restrictions on the use of result viewing figures (RVF) as a basis for legal challenges and the timing of party primaries.
Akpabio dismissed claims of lack of transparency in the lawmaking process, saying 14 public hearings were held before final passage. The Act was passed in December 2025 and signed into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in January 2026. Opposition parties, including the Labour Party and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), argue that certain provisions could undermine electoral credibility. INEC spokesperson An electoral commissioner, Festus Okoye, said the commission has begun adapting its processes to meet the new legal framework.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio's defense of the Electoral Act, 2026, comes despite documented concerns from opposition parties about provisions limiting RVF use in litigation. The law's passage through extensive hearings does not erase the perception that it favors established political interests over electoral transparency. For Nigerian voters, this could mean a repeat of legal battles over election results under a system they are told is reformed but still feels tilted. The real test will be whether INEC applies the Act impartially when ballots are counted.
