Igini urges Tinubu to reject new Electoral Act bill

Former Resident Electoral Commissioner Mike Igini has urged President Bola Tinubu not to sign the newly passed Electoral Act amendment, warning it could destabilise Nigeria’s democratic process.

During an interview on Arise Television, Igini argued that provisions dealing with electronic transmission of results, particularly those allowing manual alternatives, could create confusion and disputes during elections.

He reminded the president of earlier democratic struggles aimed at ensuring that electoral outcomes reflect voters’ choices rather than institutional influence, urging him to return the bill for reconsideration.

Igini also criticised the National Assembly’s handling of the legislation and highlighted long-standing concerns about judicial performance in election disputes. He noted that confidence in the courts has eroded, despite their crucial role in defending constitutional order.

The former commissioner stressed that Nigeria’s democratic stability ultimately depends on transparent processes, judicial integrity, and the protection of voters’ rights.