By Muhammad Mamman
Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has accused the Federal Government of deliberately delaying the passage of critical amendments to the Electoral Act, warning that the move is a calculated attempt to rig the 2027 general elections.
In a statement issued on Tuesday, Atiku said the prolonged failure to update Nigeria’s electoral legal framework raises serious concerns about the commitment of the current administration to free, fair and credible polls.
According to him, several proposed reforms to the Electoral Act are crucial to strengthening transparency, improving the credibility of elections and restoring public confidence in the democratic process. He argued that stalling these reforms undermines democracy and fuels suspicion ahead of the next general elections.
“The persistent delay in passing amendments to the Electoral Act is not accidental. It is a dangerous strategy aimed at preserving loopholes that can be exploited to manipulate the 2027 elections,” Atiku said.
The former presidential candidate of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) called on the National Assembly to act swiftly and independently in the national interest, stressing that electoral reforms should never be subjected to partisan calculations.
He also urged civil society organisations, political parties and Nigerians at large to remain vigilant and demand accountability, noting that credible elections are the foundation of political stability and good governance.
Atiku warned that failure to urgently strengthen the electoral process could further erode public trust and deepen voter apathy, with long-term consequences for Nigeria’s democracy.
As preparations for the 2027 polls gradually begin, the delay in electoral reforms has continued to generate debate among political stakeholders, with growing calls for transparency and urgency in the legislative process.
