Electoral Act 2026: Consensus Candidates in Nigeria

The article addresses the impact of the Electoral Act 2026 on the nomination processes within Nigerian political parties, particularly focusing on the shift from indirect primaries to consensus candidates. It critiques the indirect primary system, which has become a means for political manipulation, likening it to an auction where delegates are influenced by financial incentives.

The article mentions the APC's presidential convention that produced Bola Tinubu as a candidate for the 2023 elections, noting allegations of financial misconduct among delegates. It emphasizes the necessity of written consent for consensus candidates as per Section 87 of the Electoral Act, highlighting the lack of genuine consent in recent endorsements, particularly in Nasarawa and Oyo states.

The situation in Edo State is also discussed, where the APC faces internal conflicts over senatorial tickets, with notable figures like Osagie Ize-Iyamu and Omoregi Ogbeid Ihama vying for positions. The article concludes that the consensus approach, if not properly managed, could further entrench elite control over party nominations.