Electoral Act Amendment: Stop playing with fire — Ezekwesili warns Senate
Former Minister Oby Ezekwesili Criticizes Senate’s Handling of Electoral Act Amendment Bill
Former Minister of Education Oby Ezekwesili has condemned the Nigerian Senate for its recent decisions regarding the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026. During an interview on Arise Television’s The Morning Show on Friday, she cautioned that the Senate’s actions could exacerbate public discontent and potentially jeopardize Nigeria’s democratic integrity.
The Senate passed the Electoral Bill 2026 on Wednesday after extensive debate but rejected a proposal that would have mandated real-time electronic transmission of election results. The amendment included changes to election timelines, penalties for electoral violations, and the integration of voting technology.
Ezekwesili criticized the political class, particularly the Senate, for consistently eroding public trust. “Stop playing with fire,” she stated, suggesting that lawmakers seem to prioritise decisions that alienate citizens.
She emphasized that the public’s frustration is justified, acknowledging the perceived excesses and poor judgment of lawmakers. “Anyone who thinks it’s inappropriate for citizens to express anger is out of touch,” she said.
While urging against incitement, Ezekwesili stressed the importance of civic engagement and vigilance in protecting democratic values. “Citizens must understand their rights when exercising their liberties,” she remarked, quoting Thomas Jefferson on the necessity of vigilance for freedom.
Ezekwesili also warned lawmakers against treating Nigeria as a personal domain. “Nigerian democracy belongs to the people, not the politicians,” she asserted.
The Senate’s passage of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill has drawn significant public interest, particularly regarding its refusal to require electronic transmission of election results. Civil society groups and political commentators have argued that such measures are vital for enhancing transparency and restoring public confidence in the electoral process, following controversies surrounding the 2023 general elections.
