ADC Condemns Senate’s Rejection of Electoral Reforms, Calls New Law APC’s ‘Rigging Blueprint’
Abuja — The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has condemned the decision of the APC-led 10th Senate to reject key reforms to the Electoral Act, describing the move as a deliberate attempt to undermine Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Wednesday by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party faulted the Senate’s refusal to approve mandatory electronic transmission of election results and provisions allowing electronic download of voter cards from the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
The ADC also criticised the reduction of election notice periods and the shortening of timelines for the publication of candidates’ lists, warning that the changes would worsen logistics for INEC and weaken electoral transparency.
According to the party, the rejected provisions were designed to safeguard the electoral process, curb manipulation, and restore public confidence in elections. Instead, it said, the Senate’s actions amount to legislative tampering aimed at expanding opportunities for rigging.
“The actions of the Senate reveal the ruling party’s fear of free and fair elections in 2027, despite its political dominance,” the statement said.
The ADC accused the All Progressives Congress (APC) of exploiting its majority in the National Assembly to rewrite electoral laws in its favour, adding that the decision betrays a lack of confidence in its popular support.
“Nigerians are well aware that the APC is mortally afraid of subjecting itself to free and fair elections because of the unprecedented hardship it has inflicted on citizens,” the party said.
Describing the Senate’s action as retrogressive, the ADC called on Nigerians to resist what it termed an assault on democratic norms and urged the Conference Committee on the Electoral Act to overturn the Senate’s decisions.
The party appealed to the committee to pass amendments that reflect democratic principles and the will of the Nigerian people.
