During an interview with ADC Media Network 2.0, Hon. Rahman Owokoniran the national vice chairman of ADC, south west zone expressed strong concerns over recent electoral amendments and their implications for Nigeria’s democracy.
He stated that Nigeria cannot celebrate 67 years of independence while remaining silent about provisions that threaten the integrity of the electoral system.
According to him, five critical issues must be urgently addressed:
First, the absence of a clear and mandatory provision for electronic transmission of results. Transparency must not be left to discretion.
Second, the expansion of discretionary powers without sufficient safeguards, which could open the door to abuse.
Third, vague collation procedures that create room for manipulation and undermine credibility.
Fourth, provisions that may weaken the role of party agents and independent observers, thereby reducing transparency at polling units and collation centers.
Fifth, sections that appear inconsistent with constitutional guarantees of fairness, due process, and equal participation.
Hon. Owokoniran emphasized that Nigeria is a constitutional republic and that no electoral law should contradict the Constitution or be tailored for political convenience.
He stressed that if these concerns are not addressed, lawful constitutional steps, including judicial review, may become necessary. Seeking interpretation from the courts, he noted, is not confrontation but a defense of democracy.
He concluded by stating that the 2027 elections must not only be free and fair but visibly transparent and credible to Nigerians and the international community.
Nigeria deserves an electoral system that protects the ballot and reflects the true will of the people.
Issued By:
ADC Media Network 2.0
