Political Parties Threaten 2027 Election Boycott Over Act

Political parties in Nigeria, represented by the Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), have expressed their intention to boycott the 2027 general elections if the controversial provisions of the newly enacted Electoral Act 2026 are not urgently reviewed. During an emergency meeting in Abuja, IPAC's national chairman, Yusuf Dantal, highlighted concerns that certain sections of the new law weaken Nigeria's multiparty democracy and undermine confidence in the electoral system.

Key issues raised include Section 84(2), which excludes indirect primaries for selecting party candidates, potentially violating the constitutional rights of political parties to manage their internal affairs. Additionally, the absence of mandatory electronic transmission of election results is seen as a major flaw that could lead to disputes similar to those witnessed during the 2023 presidential elections.

IPAC warns that failure to amend these provisions could disenfranchise millions of Nigerians and lead to a significant boycott of the upcoming elections.