IPAC Critiques New Electoral Act's Reduced Penalties

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC), led by Chairman Yusuf Dantal, has expressed serious concerns regarding the recent amendments to Nigeria's Electoral Act, which were signed into law by President Bola Tinubu within 24 hours of their passage by the National Assembly. Dantal highlighted that the new law has drastically reduced penalties for certificate forgery and vote buying, offenses that are considered major threats to democratic integrity.

He emphasized that such leniency trivializes serious electoral infractions and undermines the electoral process. Dantal pointed out that the law should not allow individuals with weak penalties for infractions to participate in elections.

He also mentioned the role of state chief security officers in determining the welfare and security of the populace. IPAC had previously engaged with a joint committee of the National Assembly to recommend measures for ensuring fair and free elections, including the independence of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from executive influence.