The Leader of the Senate, Opeyemi Bamidele, has stated that the provisions of the 2026 Electoral Act were the outcome of broad consultations with stakeholders and not imposed by the National Assembly as alleged by some opposition leaders.
Bamidele, who also served on the Senate Committee on Electoral Matters, explained that the new electoral framework reflects global democratic standards and was not designed to advance any self-serving political agenda.
The Senate Leader made the remarks in an Easter message released on Sunday by his Directorate of Media and Public Affairs, where he urged political leaders and parties to emulate the virtues of sacrifice and tolerance demonstrated in the crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus Christ.
According to him, some opposition parties, particularly the African Democratic Congress, have alleged that the National Assembly inserted Section 77(1–7) of the 2026 Electoral Act to frustrate their chances of defeating the ruling party in the 2027 general elections.
He noted that they also criticised Section 84(1–3) of the Act, which restricts the procedure for nominating candidates for elective offices to either direct primaries or consensus.
Bamidele dismissed the claims, insisting that every provision in the law was developed through consultations and agreements among stakeholders.
He said the Act emerged from consensus among political parties, civil society organisations, and development partners, adding that political actors should now focus on abiding by the rules rather than opposing them.
He advised political leaders and parties to learn to respect and abide by the rules collectively enacted by the National Assembly to ensure peace, order, and stability in Nigeria’s political system
Bamidele further explained that the electoral reforms introduce key provisions aimed at strengthening transparency and collective decision-making within political parties.
He noted that one of the provisions requires each political party to submit a digital register of its members to the Independent National Electoral Commission within a stipulated timeframe under Section 77 of the Electoral Act.
According to him, the measure aligns with international best practices and is intended to prevent individuals who are not genuine members of a political party from hijacking its internal decision making process.
The Senate Leader also clarified the rationale behind limiting the nomination process for elective offices to direct primaries or consensus, explaining that the provision was introduced to curb the abuse associated with the delegate system.
He said the new system is designed to prevent undue influence by wealthy political actors and ensure that party members have a more transparent and inclusive role in selecting candidates.
Bamidele also condemned the recent armed attacks in parts of Plateau State and Kaduna State, which reportedly claimed several lives.
He noted that the National Assembly is working closely with both federal and state governments to address the security challenges and bring an end to such attacks on vulnerable communities.
Editor: Ebuwa Omo-Osagie
