Former Chairman of the Independent National Electoral Commission, INEC, Prof. Attahiru Jega, has called for an urgent review of some provisions of the 2026 Electoral Act, warning that they could undermine the credibility of future elections.
Speaking at the presentation of A Collection of Essays: Readings on the Legislature in Abuja, Jega said although the Act was designed to strengthen electoral integrity, it contains “issues of serious concern” that require immediate amendment.
He faulted Section 60(3), which allows manual collation of results when electronic transmission fails, describing the provision as vulnerable to manipulation.
“Given what we know about the Nigerian environment and the desperation of ‘do-or-die’ politicians, there shouldn’t be such a vague provision,” he said.
Jega also criticised Section 83(5), which bars courts from entertaining suits on the internal affairs of political parties, arguing that it could shield actions that violate constitutional provisions.
He further opposed the removal of candidates’ qualification as a ground for post-election petitions, insisting there was “no rational justification” for the change.
The former INEC chairman urged the National Assembly to amend the contentious provisions before the 2027 general elections in line with AU and ECOWAS protocols.
Jega also renewed calls for broader electoral reforms after the 2027 polls, including removing the president’s power to appoint the INEC chairman and national commissioners, unbundling the electoral commission, lowering campaign finance limits and strengthening the prosecution of electoral offenders.
He stressed that transparent electoral reforms and judicial integrity remain critical to sustaining Nigeria’s democracy.
“A good legal framework is a necessary condition for electoral integrity and sustainable democratic development, but it is not sufficient on its own,” Jega added.
