**Elections in FCT, Kano, and Rivers Raise Questions About Nigeria's Electoral Process** Nigeria's recent elections in the Federal Capital Territory, Kano, and Rivers have sparked concerns about the country's electoral system. Just three days after President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the Electoral Act 2026 into law, the test of the new legislation came in the form of by-elections in Abuja, Kano, and Rivers. The elections aimed to fill vacant seats in the House of Assembly and municipal councils, but they failed to inspire confidence in the electoral process. The new Electoral Act 2026 was touted as a means to ensure transparency, accountability, and free and fair elections. However, the hybrid format of manual and electronic transmission of results raised eyebrows, with many questioning its efficiency and effectiveness. The absence of a fully electronic transmission of results has left many Nigerians wondering if the new law is a step in the right direction. In Abuja, the FCT, the elections were marred by concerns about the credibility of results. The announced outcomes have sparked fears about the influence of state actors, security agencies, and other stakeholders in the electoral process. These fears are not unfounded, given the history of electoral malpractices in Nigeria. In Kano and Rivers, the by-elections were also shrouded in controversy. The elections have raised questions about the role of INEC, the electoral commission, and the ability of the commission to conduct free and fair elections. The cynics have been proven right, as the new Electoral Act 2026 has not been able to prevent electoral malpractices. The Nigerian people expect more from their electoral process. They expect a system that is transparent, accountable, and free from manipulation. The recent elections have fallen short of these expectations, leaving many Nigerians to wonder if the electoral process is truly democratic. As the country approaches the 2027 general elections, it is imperative that the electoral system is overhauled to ensure that the voices of Nigerians are heard and their rights protected. The new Electoral Act 2026 is a step in the right direction, but it is only the first step. It is time for Nigeria to move beyond paper laws and implement measures that ensure the integrity of the electoral process. The country's democracy depends on it.