A growing wave of criticism is trailing the proposed Electoral Act 2026, with opposition voices warning that the reforms could reshape Nigeria’s democratic system in favor of the ruling establishment while weakening political competition.
At the center of the controversy is the proposed requirement for compulsory direct primaries across all political parties—a provision critics describe as a calculated move to interfere with internal party autonomy under the guise of electoral reform.
In a strongly worded statement on Thursday, Engr. Obi Njoku condemned the bill, arguing that it represents “a deliberate and dangerous assault on the foundations of Nigeria’s democracy.”
He maintained that political parties are independent institutions, not extensions of government, and should retain the freedom to determine their internal processes without external interference.
“Any attempt to impose a uniform method of candidate selection across all parties is not only excessive—it is fundamentally undemocratic,” Njoku said.
Critics of the proposed law also argue that the financial implications of conducting nationwide direct primaries could disproportionately disadvantage smaller parties. They warn that only parties with access to significant financial resources or state backing would be able to effectively participate, thereby limiting political inclusiveness.
“This system risks turning political participation into a contest of financial strength rather than ideas or credibility,” the statement noted.
Njoku further cautioned that the new provisions could gradually erode Nigeria’s political diversity, reducing voter choice and pushing the country toward what he described as a “de facto one-party dominance.”
He added that the continued focus on regulating internal party affairs raises questions about the government’s intentions.
“A government confident in its performance does not manipulate the rules of engagement—it allows the people to decide,” he said.
The statement also warned that if the bill is passed in its current form, it could set a dangerous precedent for future governments to further interfere in political party structures, including financing, leadership selection, and candidate emergence.
Observers say the controversy underscores broader concerns about the direction of Nigeria’s democracy, particularly at a time when electoral reforms are expected to strengthen transparency and public trust.
Njoku called for an immediate review of the bill, urging lawmakers to withdraw provisions that infringe on the autonomy of political parties.
“Nigeria’s democracy must not be reduced to a system where rules are designed to protect power rather than reflect the will of the people,” he said.
As debate over the Electoral Act 2026 intensifies, political analysts say the outcome could have far-reaching implications for the country’s democratic future, shaping not just how elections are conducted—but who gets to compete in them.
Electoral Act 2026 sparks fears of one-party dominance in Nigeria
