Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the Senate of intentionally blocking efforts to amend the Electoral Act 2022, warning that delays could damage the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement shared on his verified X (formerly Twitter) account, Atiku described the 2023 general elections as a “major setback,” arguing that gaps in the current Electoral Act created room for electoral malpractice and made it difficult for aggrieved candidates to prove their cases at election tribunals.
He said a comprehensive review of the electoral legal framework is necessary to prevent a repeat of the weaknesses recorded in the last election cycle.
“It is imperative that if the mistakes of the 2023 election are to be corrected, the legal instrument for the conduct of the 2027 and subsequent future elections needs to be reviewed,” he wrote.
However, the former Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate expressed concern that the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, is not showing urgency in processing the amendments.
“But as things stand, it has become obvious that the Senate is determined to frustrate the passage of amendments to the 2022 Electoral Act,” Atiku stated.
He also cited a recent investigative report by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), describing it as a strong indictment of the Senate and a reminder of the need for lawmakers to act responsibly.
Atiku warned that the 2027 polls could be compromised if the amended Electoral Act is not finalised and enforced ahead of the next general election, insisting that electoral reforms must be concluded well in advance to strengthen public trust.
“The credibility of the 2027 general elections hinges on the urgency with which the Senate treats this crucial bill,” he said.
He added that any delay in passing the reforms would amount to laying the groundwork for manipulation long before election day.
“Anything short of this is a deliberate attempt to rig the election long before the ballots are cast,” Atiku declared.