CIVIL SOCIETY URGES NATIONAL ASSEMBLY TO ENSURE ELECTORAL BILL PROTECTS 2027 ELECTIONS

Civil society organizations have called on the National Assembly to adopt provisions ensuring real-time electronic transmission of results, downloadable voter cards, and the retention of critical electoral timelines ahead of the 2027 general elections.

In a joint statement, groups including the Centre for Media and Society (CEMESO), Nigerian Women Trust Fund, The Kukah Centre, TAF Africa, International Press Centre (IPC), Yiaga Africa, and ElectHER expressed concern over the Senate’s rejection of electronic transmission and other amendments, including the removal of a proposed 10-year ban on buying and selling Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs).

“The divergence between the Senate and House of Representatives on these amendments has profound implications for the credibility and transparency of the 2027 elections,” the statement said, warning that delays in harmonizing the bill have created legal uncertainty and may hinder the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from issuing the election timetable.

Under the Electoral Act 2022, INEC is required to release the notice of elections 360 days before election day, which for 2027 would mean issuing it by February 24, 2026, ahead of the proposed election date of February 20, 2027.

The statement also criticized the bill’s provision limiting election result reviews to INEC officials, excluding political parties, candidates, and accredited observers. Civil society groups recommended broadening eligibility to file complaints to ensure multi-stakeholder accountability and prevent manipulation of results.

Acknowledging the Senate’s announcement of an emergency plenary on February 10, 2026, the organizations urged lawmakers to adopt clear provisions that preserve electoral integrity, including maintaining timelines for notice of elections, submission of candidates, and publication of nominations.

The groups concluded by calling on citizens and stakeholders to hold legislators accountable and ensure that electoral reforms strengthen transparency, credibility, and public trust in Nigeria’s democracy.