The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the National Assembly of delaying the passage of the 2025 Electoral Bill, warning that the move could harm preparations for the 2027 general elections.
In a statement signed by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC said it was “deeply concerned by the continued prevarications of the National Assembly” over the bill.
The party claimed the APC-dominated legislature was using delay tactics to weaken proposed reforms meant to improve election credibility.
“Failure to promptly pass the bill for presidential assent raises suspicions that the legislature… is deliberately delaying key amendments, especially those intended to make future elections more difficult to rig,” the statement said.
The ADC said some of the proposed changes introduce new eligibility and compliance rules for political parties, which need time to study and implement.
It warned that rushing the process or leaving gaps could create “booby traps for opposition parties” and also make it harder for the Independent National Electoral Commission to issue clear guidelines.
The party pointed to provisions on mandatory electronic voter accreditation and electronic transmission of results, describing them as “minimum requirements on which the credibility of the 2027 elections depends.”
It also noted that the law still requires INEC to publish election notices at least 360 days before a general election, adding that “there is very little time left for adequate preparation and compliance.”
The ADC called on lawmakers to pass the bill “without further delay,” saying any postponement “risks the integrity of the 2027 general elections.”
“Nigeria cannot afford another acrimonious or dubious election,” the party said, urging civil society groups and international partners to pressure the National Assembly to act swiftly.
