Presidency Defends Electoral Act 2026 Against Opposition Claims

The presidency of Nigeria has defended the newly signed Electoral Act 2026, dismissing claims from opposition parties as reckless and spurious. President Bola Tinubu's administration, represented by Special Adviser on Media and Strategy Bayo Onanuga, criticized figures from the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP) for making unfounded allegations against the government.

The opposition has called for amendments to the act, which was signed into law on February 18, 2022, and restricts political parties to direct primaries and consensual arrangements, while shortening campaign timelines. The presidency emphasized that the act allows for real-time transmission of election results, countering claims that it creates loopholes for manipulation.

Tinubu's administration stated that the act aims to improve electoral integrity and that the opposition's objections stem from a fear of losing power. The presidency urged opposition leaders to focus on their internal issues rather than attacking the new electoral framework.