Senator Ireti Kingibe, representing the Federal Capital Territory, has alleged that key provisions in the amended Electoral Act 2026 are different from what was worked on by the legislature, saying several aspects of the final Act were "turned upside down." Appearing on Arise Television's 'Prime Time' on Monday, the lawmaker who served on the senate committee on electoral reforms raised concerns over what she described as the absence or weakening of mandatory security features on INEC ballot papers. President Bola Tinubu signed the amended Electoral Act into law on February 18, 2026.
Key Points
- Public confidence in electoral integrity may weaken if security features on ballots are perceived as inadequate.
- A sitting senator's allegations suggest possible executive alteration of legislative outcomes.
- INEC faces scrutiny over how ballot validation rules will be applied in future elections.
- Political parties and candidates may challenge election results based on ballot security disputes.
- The controversy could prompt further amendments or legal challenges before the 2027 elections.
Watch whether the National Assembly investigates Kingibe's allegations and if INEC issues clarifications on ballot security measures.
Sources: Premium Times
