The Digest:
A proposal by the National Assembly to move Nigeria’s 2027 general elections to November 2026 has ignited controversy, with critics warning it could plunge the country into “permanent electioneering” and cripple governance. The draft amendment to the Electoral Act seeks to hold presidential and gubernatorial polls 185 days before the end of incumbents’ terms, aiming to resolve electoral disputes before swearing-in.
Key Points:
- The National Assembly proposes holding the 2027 general elections in November 2026.
- The change aims to resolve election petitions before new officials are sworn in.
- Critics, including the ADC, warn it will create “permanent campaign mode.”
- Supporters argue it reduces rigging by separating presidential and state interests.
- A Lagos lawyer cited Tinubu’s 2023 Lagos loss as an example of split outcomes.
- The bill also proposes early voting for security agents, INEC staff, and journalists.
- Opponents urge focus on judicial and electoral reforms instead of date changes.
Sources: Daily Post
