Atiku Urges Urgent Review of Electoral Act Ahead of 2027 Polls

Former Vice President and Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) presidential candidate, Atiku Abubakar, has raised concerns over loopholes in the Electoral Act 2022, warning that they undermine the credibility of Nigeria’s elections.

Atiku stated that the gaps in the law facilitated widespread electoral malpractice during the 2023 general elections and made it nearly impossible for petitioners to secure justice in courts. He emphasized that the issues must be addressed urgently to ensure free, fair, and credible elections in 2027.

In a post on his verified X (formerly Twitter) handle on Thursday, the former vice president called on the National Assembly to amend the Electoral Act without delay. He also expressed concern that the Senate appears reluctant to expedite the legislative process, a delay he said could erode public confidence in the electoral system.

Atiku referenced a recent report by the Foundation for Investigative Journalism (FIJ), describing it as a critical reminder for lawmakers to take electoral reforms seriously.

“The credibility of the 2027 general elections depends on the urgency with which the Senate considers this bill. Anything short of this is a deliberate attempt to rig elections before the ballots are cast,” he warned.

The former vice president urged the National Assembly to finalise the amendments and ensure that an updated Electoral Act guides the conduct of the 2027 polls.