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Bayo Onanuga, the special adviser to President Bola Tinubu on information and strategy, has publicly accused two opposition parties of spreading false information about Nigeria’s electoral reform legislation.
In a statement issued late Wednesday, Onanuga criticized the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for what he described as “deliberate misinformation” regarding the Electoral Act 2026, which is currently being finalized ahead of the next general election cycle.
“What we are witnessing is a calculated attempt to mislead Nigerians about crucial electoral reforms,” Onanuga stated. “The opposition parties are distorting provisions of the proposed legislation to create unnecessary panic and undermine public confidence in our electoral system.”
The presidential aide specifically refuted claims that the new act would eliminate electronic transmission of results, a feature that was widely praised during the 2023 elections for improving transparency. According to Onanuga, the proposed legislation actually strengthens electronic voting mechanisms while adding additional safeguards against manipulation.
These accusations come amid growing tension between the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and opposition parties as preparations begin for the 2027 elections. Political analysts note that electoral reform has become increasingly contentious in Nigeria’s polarized political landscape.
The Electoral Act 2026 is expected to replace the current 2022 version and introduce significant changes to Nigeria’s voting procedures. Among the proposed modifications are stricter penalties for electoral offenses, expanded voter accessibility measures, and refined guidelines for party primaries.
Dr. Aisha Mohammed, a political scientist at the University of Lagos, explained the significance of these developments: “Electoral reform has become a battleground in Nigerian politics because the rules fundamentally determine how power is obtained. Both ruling and opposition parties recognize that seemingly technical details can have profound implications for their electoral fortunes.”
The ADC and NNPP have previously raised concerns about specific provisions they claim would disadvantage smaller political parties. ADC chairman Ralph Nwosu recently alleged that the proposed changes would raise financial barriers for candidate nominations, effectively shutting out parties with limited resources.
Meanwhile, the NNPP, led by former Kano governor Rabiu Kwankwaso, has questioned the timing of the reforms, suggesting they represent an attempt by the ruling party to “change the rules midway” before the next election cycle.
The Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), which would implement the new legislation, has maintained a neutral stance on the political controversy while emphasizing its commitment to improving the electoral process.
“The commission will implement whatever legal framework is approved by the National Assembly and signed into law by the President,” INEC Chairman Mahmood Yakubu stated during a recent stakeholder meeting in Abuja.
Civil society organizations have called for transparent debates around the proposed changes. The Nigeria Civil Society Situation Room, a coalition of democracy advocacy groups, has urged lawmakers to allow broader public input before finalizing the legislation.
“Electoral reform should not be partisan,” said Clement Nwankwo, convener of the Situation Room. “All stakeholders must be carried along to ensure that the final product strengthens our democracy rather than serving narrow political interests.”
The National Assembly is expected to deliberate on the final draft of the Electoral Act 2026 in the coming weeks, with passage anticipated before the end of the year to provide adequate time for implementation ahead of the 2027 electoral cycle.
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22 Comments
Strengthening electronic voting mechanisms is a positive step, if done transparently and with appropriate safeguards. Maintaining public confidence should be the top priority.
Agreed. Objective analysis and inclusive dialogue are crucial to ensure fair, credible elections that all Nigerians can trust.
Accusations of misinformation are worrying. I’d encourage both the government and opposition to focus on facts and engage in constructive debate on the proposed reforms.
Electoral reforms are complex and sensitive. I appreciate the government’s efforts to improve the system, but also understand the opposition’s desire for more input. Open, good-faith dialogue is essential.
Well said. Rebuilding public trust in the electoral process should be the shared goal, above partisan interests. I hope all sides can find common ground.
Accusations of misinformation are concerning. I’d encourage all parties to focus on facts and engage in good-faith dialogue to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral system.
Well said. Rebuilding public trust should be the shared goal, above partisan interests. I hope all stakeholders can find common ground on these crucial reforms.
Improving electoral transparency and integrity is crucial for Nigeria’s democracy. I hope the government and opposition can work together constructively on these reforms.
Accusations of misinformation are concerning, but I’m curious to hear more details from both sides. Objective analysis of the proposed legislation’s provisions would help inform the public debate.
The proposed legislation’s provisions on electronic voting and result transmission will be key. I hope the final law balances security needs with transparency and accountability.
Electronic transmission of results was a key advance in the 2023 elections. I hope the new legislation can build on that progress while addressing any legitimate security concerns.
Agreed, a balanced approach is needed – enhancing transparency while also ensuring the integrity of the process. I look forward to seeing the final details of the reforms.
It’s concerning to hear accusations of misinformation about electoral reforms. Transparent and credible elections are crucial for democracy. I hope the government and opposition can work together constructively to address any issues and build public trust in the process.
I agree, open dialogue and compromise are needed to ensure fair and inclusive elections. Both sides should focus on facts rather than political posturing.
Strengthening electronic voting mechanisms while adding safeguards sounds like a positive step, if implemented properly. Maintaining public confidence in the electoral system is vital for Nigeria’s democratic progress.
Agreed. Improving transparency and reducing the risk of manipulation is crucial. I hope all stakeholders can work together in good faith on these reforms.
Accusations of deliberate misinformation are serious. I hope both the government and opposition can focus on facts and work together to craft effective, trustworthy electoral laws.
Absolutely. Transparent, inclusive electoral reforms are crucial for Nigeria’s democratic future. Partisan posturing should not undermine that vital process.
Maintaining the integrity of electronic voting and result transmission is critical. I look forward to seeing the details of the proposed legislation and how it addresses these issues.
Agreed. Objective analysis and inclusive dialogue are key to ensuring the reforms strengthen Nigeria’s democratic institutions.
Polarization and misinformation around electoral reforms is a worrying trend. Nigeria needs constructive dialogue and compromise to strengthen its democratic institutions.
Transparent, secure, and inclusive electoral processes are essential for democracy. I hope the government and opposition can work together to address any concerns and build public confidence.