2027 Electoral Act: Why we’re worried – National Peace Committee
Concerns Raised Over New Electoral Act
Rev. Fr. Atta Barkindo, head of the National Peace Committee Secretariat, has voiced apprehensions regarding the recently enacted 2026 Electoral Act, signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.
Barkindo emphasized that the Act should have incorporated provisions stipulating that politicians who defect from their elected parties should lose their positions. He expressed disappointment that this critical measure was overlooked during amendments.
Additionally, the National Peace Accord Committee has highlighted its concerns about the funding mechanisms for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). “The previous act mandated that funding for INEC be provided at least one year before elections,” Barkindo noted in an interview with Arise News. “However, the new act only allocates funds six months prior, exacerbating logistical and procurement issues faced by the commission.”
Barkindo also pointed out that while INEC has submitted its budget, it is still under discussion, leaving little time before the upcoming elections. “This delay poses a significant challenge,” he stated.
The new legislation also eliminates indirect primaries for political parties, shifting the process to either direct primaries or consensus. Barkindo expressed concern about the implications of this change, stating that political parties remain the primary pathway to authority in the country. Under the new regulations, parties must begin primaries by April 23 and are required to submit a digital register of members, complete with verification details.
“This process may prove difficult for some political parties to implement,” he cautioned. “If individuals are not registered, they cannot participate in voting or candidacy.”
Barkindo called on lawmakers to revisit the Act and include provisions for immediate vacancy declarations and subsequent elections for any defections. He stressed the urgency for political leaders to address these challenges as the election date approaches.
