Electoral Act: 2027 election under threat β Timi Frank
Timi Frank, a former APC official, warns that unresolved electoral reform issues could jeopardize the integrity of Nigeria's 2027 elections.
Timi Frank, who previously served as the Deputy National Publicity Secretary of the All Progressives Congress, has expressed serious concerns about the future of the 2027 elections in Nigeria due to ongoing debates surrounding electoral amendments. His comments come in light of the recent passage of the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Reenactment) Amendment Bill 2026 by the Nigerian Senate, which occurred after a third reading. Frank's warnings highlight a critical aspect of the electoral landscape in Nigeria, as unresolved issues could potentially lead to challenges in future electoral processes.
One of the contentious points in the legislative process has been the decision not to approve a proposed amendment to Clause 60(3), which would have mandated the real-time electronic transmission of election results by the presiding officers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). This amendment was intended to enhance transparency and accountability during elections by ensuring that results from polling units were transmitted electronically to the INEC Result Viewing Portal immediately after being finalized by party agents. However, lawmakers opted to maintain the existing provisions of the 2022 Electoral Act, raising concerns about the credibility of future elections.
The implications of these actions could be significant for Nigeria's democratic processes, as the retention of outdated electoral procedures may lead to accusations of manipulation and inefficiency during elections. Frank's statements serve as a warning to political leaders and the public alike, suggesting that without necessary reforms, the integrity of the electoral system could be compromised, ultimately affecting voter confidence and participation in the democratic process. As the nation moves towards the 2027 elections, the debate surrounding these electoral reforms will likely continue to be a focal point of political discourse.