Top opposition leaders on Tuesday converged on the Transcorp Hilton Hotel in Abuja to publicly challenge key provisions of the newly amended Electoral Act, raising concerns about its impact on Nigeria’s democracy and future elections.
The high-level meeting, held at the Lagos/Osun Hall of the hotel, brought together major political figures from different parties who say the recent changes to the law could weaken internal party democracy and limit political participation. The leaders are expected to jointly present their position and outline possible next steps.
Among those in attendance are former Vice-President Atiku Abubakar and the Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi. Also present are former Senate President David Mark; New Nigeria Peoples Party chieftain, Buba Galadima; former Rivers State Governor, Rotimi Amaechi; and the National Secretary of the African Democratic Congress, Rauf Aregbesola.
Other notable stakeholders at the venue include the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi; Senator Dino Melaye; former ADC National Chairman, Ralph Nwosu; and former Cross River State Governor, Liyel Imoke, among several party loyalists and political observers.
The gathering comes amid growing debate over changes introduced in the 2026 Electoral Act, which was recently passed by the National Assembly and signed into law by President Bola Tinubu on February 18.
Under the previous Electoral Act 2022, political parties were allowed three methods for choosing their candidates: direct primaries involving all registered party members, indirect primaries conducted through elected delegates, or consensus arrangements agreed upon by party leaders.
However, the new 2026 law removes the option of indirect primaries, leaving parties with only direct primaries or consensus as approved methods for selecting candidates. Critics argue that this could create logistical and financial pressure on parties, especially smaller ones, and may reduce flexibility in managing internal processes.
The amended law also shortens the timelines for party primaries and general election campaigns. In addition, funding for the Independent National Electoral Commission will now be released six months before an election, instead of the 12-month window previously provided.
Opposition leaders say these changes could significantly affect election planning, party organization, and overall electoral transparency. They are expected to call for further consultations, possible amendments, or broader stakeholder engagement to ensure the new provisions strengthen rather than weaken Nigeria’s democratic process.
