Ex-INEC Officials Critique Ambiguities in Electoral Act 2026

Former officials of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) expressed concerns over ambiguities in the newly signed Electoral Act 2026 during a roundtable organized by Yiaga Africa in Abuja. They highlighted that unclear provisions related to the electronic transmission of results and the use of smart card readers could jeopardize electoral integrity.

Festus Okoye, a former national commissioner, emphasized the need for lawmakers to harmonize the act's provisions to eliminate ambiguities that could affect future elections. The act mandates electronic transmission of results, but Okoye noted discrepancies in the interpretation of sections 60 and 65, which could lead to confusion during implementation.

He cautioned against embedding specific technologies in the law, advocating for flexibility to adapt to technological advancements. Other former officials, including Mike Igini and Chidi Nwafor, supported these views, stressing the importance of clear guidelines to ensure the integrity of the electoral process, especially with the upcoming 2027 elections.