Movement for the Transformation of Nigeria, MOT!ON, has raised the alarm over the Electoral Act 2022 review, questioning whether the process was a step forward to strengthen democratic governance or a power play for politicians.
MOT!ON, also called for transparency and inclusivity in the review process to ensure the changes benefit Nigeria’s democratic journey, not just a selected few.
According to a press release signed by Hauwa Mustapha, Convener, Christopher Isiguzo, Co-Convener, Blessing Alims, Co-Convener, Dr. Otive Igbuzor, Member, Steering Committee MOT!ON, the review of Nigeria’s Electoral Act 2022 represents a critical crossroad for the country’s 26 years of democratic governance since 1999.
MOT!ON questioned; “As stakeholders await the outcome of review being undertaken by the10th National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio, and the Speaker of the House of Representatives Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, a fundamental question lingers, whose interests are truly being served?”
It further questioned, “Will the proposed amendments prioritise transparency, accountability, and the will of the people, or will they further entrench power and protect vested interests?”
MOT!ON, affirmed that it aligned firmly with the Nigerian people in demanding that the review process of the Electoral Act 2022 be transparent, and inclusive, and reflective of a genuine commitment by the National Assembly to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral framework.
The movement said that such reforms were essential to deepening a democracy that delivers for all citizens noting that credible and inclusive elections were central to the values and fundamental to a strong democracy.
The MOT!ON statement pointed out that they confer legitimacy on governments and provide a clear mandate to govern effectively noting that, when elections accurately reflect the will of the people, leaders were held accountable to citizens rather than privileged few.
It explained, “Fair elections also reduce tensions and promote peaceful transitions of power, thereby ensuring national stability. Inclusive elections guarantee diverse voices are heard, fostering a sense of representation among all citizens. Transparent electoral processes, in turn, build trust in institutions and strengthen democratic governance.”
At this critical juncture, MOT!ON urged Members of the National Assembly to seize the opportunity presented by Nigerians’ efforts to rebuild trust in the electoral process stressing that this was a moment to right past wrongs and collectively strengthen democracy through an electoral framework that guarantees credible and inclusive elections.
It further cautioned against the danger of turning the Electoral Act 2022 review into a vehicle for self-serving agendas pointing out that Lawmakers must approach this process with the seriousness it deserves, conduct a thorough review in line with growing public interest, and act decisively to rescue our democracy from further decline.
“The growing among stakeholders, coupled with the perceived delay tactics by relevant committees of the National Assembly in amending the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 general elections, is of deep concern to MOT!ON. Failure to amend the Act before the next elections poses significant risks to Nigeria’s democratic process.
“We recognise that the current Act contain gaps that could further entrenched widespread electoral fraud, create barriers for petitioners seeking to challenge results in court, and further erode public trust in the electoral system. These shortcomings undermine the legitimacy of elected officials and may lead to increased post-election disputes, potentially destabilising the country.
“Moreover, delaying amendments will shorten the Independent National Electoral Commission’s, INEC, preparation time, risking rushed guidelines and ultimately compromising electoral integrity,” MOT!ON concluded
