Lagos APC Praises Electoral Act 2026 as Vital Reform for Nigeria's Future

 

The Lagos State chapter of the All Progressives Congress (APC) has endorsed the newly signed Electoral Act 2026, describing it as a critical step forward in fulfilling constitutional duties and advancing the interests of all Nigerians.676bb0 In a statement released on Thursday, the party emphasized that the legislation represents reforms grounded in legality, sustainability, and national unity, particularly as the ruling party in Lagos State.

"The Electoral Act 2026 is a serious constitutional duty carried out in the best interest of Nigerians," said Olasunkanmi Akoni, a spokesperson for the Lagos APC.44e22e "As the ruling party in Lagos State, the Lagos APC stands firmly with reforms anchored on legality, sustainability, and national cohesion."

The endorsement comes just a day after President Bola Tinubu signed the Electoral Act 2026 (Amendment) Bill into law at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.316a14 The signing, witnessed by principal officers of the National Assembly, establishes the legal framework for the 2027 general elections.a34377 This follows the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) unveiling the official election timetable earlier this week.

Key changes in the Act include provisions aimed at enhancing transparency, credibility, and the overall conduct of elections.ff7eb4 Senate President Godswill Akpabio highlighted that the amendments will ensure "every vote counts" and put an end to results manipulation.105dc3 "At the end, Nigerians will benefit a lot from future elections. Every vote will now count," Akpabio told reporters after the signing ceremony.

However, the legislation has sparked controversy. Critics, including the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), have warned that the rushed passage of the bill could erode public confidence in Nigeria's democracy.9a756c IPAC's National Publicity Secretary, Egbeola Wale Martins, cautioned that "power is transient, and history will judge" those involved in the process.3a4708 Opposition figures like Pat Utomi have gone further, condemning the Act as a "murder of freedom."edb4a2

The African Democratic Congress (ADC) accused the APC of fearing credible elections, despite controlling most governorships.1d6f4e Debates in the National Assembly were stormy, with opposition lawmakers staging walkouts over changes to electronic transmission rules and party primary procedures.886682 The bill removes detailed statutory procedures for party primaries, a move that has raised concerns about potential manipulation.657ab9

Proponents, including Akpabio, argue that the Act meets the aspirations of the broader Nigerian populace rather than a vocal minority.d5ef4a "We've met the aspiration of Nigerians, not few people who make noise," he stated.

As Nigeria gears up for the 2027 polls, the Electoral Act 2026 is poised to shape the electoral landscape amid ongoing debates about digital implementation and telecommunications challenges.b653df Observers note that while the Act promises improved processes, its success will depend on INEC's execution and judicial oversight.

The Lagos APC's support underscores the party's commitment to the reforms, positioning them as essential for national progress. With elections on the horizon, all eyes are on how these changes will play out in practice.