society
Tinubu Signs Electoral Bill into Law — A Defining Moment for Nigeria’s Democracy
Tinubu Signs Electoral Bill into Law — A Defining Moment for Nigeria’s Democracy
By George Omagbemi Sylvester | Published by SaharaWeeklyNG
“New Electoral Act 2026 Enters the Statute Books Amid Intense Debate Over Nigeria’s Democratic Future.”
In a watershed development for Nigeria’s political trajectory, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has signed the Electoral Act, 2026 (a fundamental overhaul of the nation’s electoral legal framework) into law. The signing took place on 18 February 2026 at the Presidential Villa in Abuja, following the passage of the Electoral Act (Repeal and Re‑Enactment) Bill, 2026 by the National Assembly.
This move marks a critical legislative milestone ahead of the 2027 general elections. The amended Electoral Act replaces the 2022 law and introduces key changes to Nigeria’s electoral processes, procedures and timelines; a package that has ignited both approval and fierce criticism from political stakeholders, civil society and democracy advocates.
At the centre of the amendments are revisions to election timetables, the scope of result transmission procedures, and administrative adjustments intended to align the law with the logistical realities of upcoming polls. The Senate, during its legislative consideration, moved to shorten the notice period for general elections from 360 days to 300 days, a shift argued to be necessary to avoid a clash with the Ramadan fasting period, which could complicate nationwide mobilisation and voter participation.
Among the most contested provisions in the new law is the treatment of electronic transmission of election results. Initial versions of the bill sought to mandate the real‑time upload of polling unit results directly to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) result platform — a reform widely regarded by experts as crucial for transparency and public confidence. However, the Senate’s final version retained a fallback to manual transmission in cases of network failure, a compromise that has been sharply criticised.
This compromise has drawn pointed warnings from seasoned electoral experts. Mike Igini, a former Resident Electoral Commissioner with the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), unequivocally described the bill as potentially harmful to Nigeria’s democratic progress. In a televised appeal on Arise Television, Igini urged President Tinubu not to sign the bill, calling it “a recipe for chaos” and a betrayal of the struggles that brought Nigeria to a competitive democratic space. He warned that weakening electronic transmission safeguards could leave room for manipulation, undercutting confidence in election outcomes.
Such dissent underscores the larger debate now gripping the nation, especially among civil society and opposition figures. Critics argue that the amendments fall short of international best practices for electoral transparency and accountability. Natasha Akpoti‑Uduaghan, a lawmaker and vocal proponent of stronger electoral reforms, has publicly condemned the removal of mandatory real‑time result transmission, calling it a “lethal assault on Nigeria’s democracy”. She urged for stronger safeguards that align with technological advancements and global trends toward transparent elections.
Proponents of the new law, including some in the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) and supportive legislators, insist that the provisions strike a necessary balance between ambition and practicality. They argue that preserving manual processes as a contingency recognises the realities of Nigeria’s digital infrastructure challenges, especially in rural and underserved regions where reliable internet connectivity cannot be guaranteed.
Notably, the new law also preserves the Independent National Electoral Commission’s discretionary authority over certain key administrative functions, including the manner and timing of result transmission, which INEC is now expected to align with fresh guidelines consistent with the new statutory framework.
Analysts note that this legislative stride comes at a moment of heightened political activity as parties gear up for the 2027 elections. INEC’s recently released timetable for the next general polls signals a compressed campaign and preparation cycle, heightening the stakes for political actors and voters alike.
For many Nigerians, the day’s events resonate beyond legislative procedure and enter the realm of democratic symbolism. According to Dr Akin Olukayode, a governance expert at the Centre for Democratic Development, “How electoral laws are crafted and implemented defines the essence of representation. Elections are not merely contests for power; they are expressions of popular will. Any framework that weakens transparency undermines the social contract between citizens and state.”
As Nigeria enters its next general election cycle under this new legal regime, the country faces profound questions about reform, credibility and political inclusiveness. The path ahead (from INEC’s operationalisation of the law, through legal interpretations in the courts, to the lived experience of voters in 2027) will ultimately determine whether this legislative overhaul strengthens or weakens Nigeria’s democratic foundation.
What remains clear is that in signing the Electoral Act 2026 into law, President Tinubu has set into motion a defining chapter in Nigeria’s electoral history; one that will be intensely scrutinised by scholars, policymakers and citizens at home and abroad.
society
Liberian Leaders, Citizens Bear Witness as Apostle Suleman Hosts Two-Day Power-Packed Crusade
Liberian Leaders, Citizens Bear Witness as Apostle Suleman Hosts Two-Day Power-Packed Crusade
It was testimonies galore on Tuesday, March 31, the first day of the famous servant of God and founder of the Omega Fire Ministries (OFM) worldwide, Apostle Johnson Suleman’s power-packed two-day crusade. The event documented impactful moments with the Gospel and miracles, emphasizing the power of faith and the tangible confirmation of God’s Word through signs and wonders. It was equally an atmosphere of miraculous healing, restoration of lives, and the strengthening of faith.
At the crusade, which was held at the SKD Sports Stadium in Paynesville City, and themed, “Liberia Outpouring Crusade” witnessed testimonies of impact and miracles with participants experiencing instant healing of various kinds of challenges.
Apostle Suleman’s first port of call was Paynesville, the office of Liberian government’s president, Mr. Joseph Nyuma Boakai, who received him in an audience with his junior ministers. Apostle Suleman, who also met with the vice-president, Mr. Jeremiah Kpan Koung, was welcomed by the Liberian leader’s office as part of the president’s ongoing engagements with religious leaders aimed at fostering spiritual support for national development.
The president expressed profound appreciation to Apostle Suleman for the visit and continued prayers and intercessions by men and women of God on behalf of Liberia, emphasizing his firm belief that sustained spiritual guidance and prayer remain vital to the transformation and progress of the nation.
During the visit, Apostle Suleman offered prayers for President Boakai, his cabinet and the Liberian nation, invoking divine alignment, wisdom, and insight in Liberia’s path toward growth and stability. He prayed that the Almighty God would position Liberia for relevance and fulfillment of its national destiny.
Apostle Johnson Suleman, an evangelist who knows no bounds of where preaching the gospel comes to a stop, visited Liberia prepared with the message, compelling power of the Gospel and the work of the Holy Spirit, and bringing people to a point of decision where they surrendered their lives to Christ.
Aside from being prophetic and timely, OFM sources disclosed that the servant of God’s visit underscores the importance of faith-based partnerships in supporting governance and national renewal efforts.
society
Middle Belt Forum Hails Tinubu’s Jos Visit, Calls for United Civil-Military Effort to Restore Lasting Peace
*Middle Belt Forum Hails Tinubu’s Jos Visit, Calls for United Civil-Military Effort to Restore Lasting Peace
The Middle Belt Peace Forum (MBPF) has commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his profound demonstration of empathy and responsive leadership following his decision to postpone an official engagement in Iperu in order to visit victims of the recent attacks in Jos.
In a statement signed by its National Coordinator, Pastor Bulus Garba, in Jos on Friday, the Forum said the President’s decision to personally identify with grieving communities sends a powerful message of solidarity and reinforces public confidence in the commitment of the Federal Government to the protection of lives and property.
“The Middle Belt Peace Forum warmly commends President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for prioritising compassion over ceremony. At a time of deep sorrow for the people of Plateau State, his decision to visit Jos stands as a mark of true leadership—one that listens, responds, and stands with the people in their moment of pain,” the statement read.
The Forum described the perpetrators of the recent attacks as “cowards who prey on innocent and defenceless citizens,” stressing that such acts of violence are not only inhumane but also a direct assault on the unity and peace of the nation.
“We condemn in the strongest terms the actions of these cowardly attackers whose only aim is to instil fear and destabilise peaceful communities. Their actions must be met with firm and decisive resistance from all arms of the state,” Pastor Garba said.
The MBPF further used the opportunity to salute the courage, gallantry, and sacrifices of the Armed Forces of Nigeria under the leadership of the Chief of Defence Staff, General Olufemi Oluyede, noting that their continued efforts remain central to restoring stability across troubled parts of the country.
According to the Forum, the Armed Forces have demonstrated resilience and professionalism in the face of complex security challenges, often operating under difficult conditions to safeguard communities and defend Nigeria’s territorial integrity.
“We salute the Armed Forces of Nigeria for their unwavering commitment and sacrifices. Their gallantry in confronting criminal elements and reclaiming territories is a testament to their dedication to national service. We recognise that the path to peace is demanding, and we honour those who stand daily in defence of our nation,” the statement added.
The Forum pledged its full support to ongoing military operations and called for strengthened collaboration between security agencies and local communities as a critical factor in achieving lasting peace.
It also urged citizens across the Middle Belt to cooperate with security forces by providing timely information and fostering unity within their communities.
The MBPF, however, expressed concern over the need for greater synergy among security agencies, particularly the role of the Nigeria Police in consolidating gains made by the military.
“We call on the Nigeria Police Force to rise fully to its constitutional responsibility by effectively supporting the Armed Forces in stabilising and securing areas that have been cleared of criminal elements. Holding and policing such territories is essential to preventing a resurgence of violence,” Pastor Garba stated.
The Forum emphasised that sustainable peace requires a coordinated approach in which the military clears and secures areas, while the police maintain law and order to enable displaced communities to return and rebuild their lives.
The MBPF concluded by reiterating its commitment to peacebuilding efforts across the Middle Belt and expressed optimism that with sustained leadership, coordinated security efforts, and active citizen participation, lasting peace can be achieved.
“Together, through unity, vigilance, and collective resolve, we can overcome these challenges and build a safer and more peaceful Middle Belt,” the statement added.
society
Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London
Governor Dauda Lawal Wins Face of Africa Governor of the Year Award in London
Governor Dauda Lawal has been honored with the Outstanding Governor of the Year award by Triangle Media International Magazine.
The award was presented during the magazine’s 10th annual lecture and award ceremony, held on Thursday at the Grand Hall of King’s College, London, United Kingdom.
According to a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sulaiman Bala Idris, the awards recognize public and private sector leaders whose leadership positively impacts governance and service delivery.
He added that the lecture, themed “Harnessing the Roles of Nigerians in Diaspora for National Development,” brought together stakeholders from both the public and private sectors.
The statement read in part: “Yesterday, in London, Governor Dauda Lawal received the 2026 Face of Africa Leadership Award for Outstanding Governor of the Year.
“The 2026 edition coincides with the 10th anniversary of Triangle International Magazine, which has over the years celebrated notable Africans across diverse fields.
“The award recognizes the Zamfara State Government under Governor Lawal’s leadership for achieving remarkable milestones in service delivery since his inauguration on 29 May 2023.
“The board of Triangle International noted that, despite inheriting an empty treasury, Governor Dauda Lawal has remained true to the Rescue Agenda’s campaign promise: to rescue and rebuild Zamfara.
“The award also reflects the state government’s innovative approach to indirectly curbing insecurity through educational advancement, demonstrated by the declaration of a state of emergency in the education sector.
“This includes the state government’s swift payment of the outstanding N3.4 billion for WAEC and NECO examinations, as well as the reconstruction and rehabilitation of schools across all 14 Local Government Areas of Zamfara State.
“The international magazine finds these initiatives to be strategic interventions toward long-term efforts to make Zamfara State better.”
The colourful event was attended by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, and Sahara Group’s Group Managing Director, Kola Adesina, among others.
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