CSOs Criticize Tinubu's Swift Assent to Electoral Act

Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), including Kukah Centre and Yiaga Africa, expressed serious concerns regarding President Bola Ahmed Tinubu's rapid assent to the Electoral Act 2026, which was passed by the National Assembly. During a press conference held on Thursday, the CSOs stated that this decision represents a missed opportunity for significant electoral reform in Nigeria.

They highlighted that the act, signed just 24 hours after its passage, has generated mixed reactions among citizens and stakeholders. Chief Executive Officer of Taf Africa warned that the amendments to the act have not met expected standards and have ignored various stakeholders' concerns.

The CSOs criticized the imposition of a 50 million naira administrative fee for the registration of new political parties, arguing that it limits flexibility and increases the risk of vote manipulation. They called for the National Assembly to publish the assent version of the Electoral Act and urged the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to release a revised timetable for the 2027 general elections, vowing to monitor the implementation process leading up to the elections.