The Senate has defended key parts of the 2026 Electoral Act, saying the decision to limit political parties to direct primaries or consensus arrangements was intentional and in line with democratic standards.
Senate Leader, Opeyemi Bamidele, made this known in an Easter message issued in Abuja on Sunday. He explained that the law was not imposed by lawmakers but was the result of consultations with various stakeholders.
His comments come amid growing criticism from opposition parties ahead of the 2027 general elections. Some, especially members of the African Democratic Congress, have accused the National Assembly of including provisions designed to weaken their chances against the ruling party.
Bamidele, however, dismissed these claims, insisting that the Electoral Act reflects a broad consensus involving political actors, civil society groups, and development partners.
He said the restriction to direct primaries and consensus was meant to reduce the influence of money in politics and eliminate the delegate system, which has often been criticised for manipulation.
According to him, the new system gives all party members a chance to participate more directly in choosing candidates, rather than leaving decisions in the hands of a few delegates.
He also defended the requirement for political parties to maintain a digital register of members, saying it aligns with global best practices and promotes transparency within party structures.
Bamidele stressed that membership is central to any political party and that every member should have a role in decision-making. He added that the digital register would help prevent powerful outsiders from hijacking party processes.
“Now is the time we must play by the rules and not against them,” he said.
Beyond electoral matters, the Senate also condemned recent attacks in parts of the country, including Plateau and Kaduna states, which have claimed several lives.
Bamidele assured Nigerians that the National Assembly is working with both federal and state governments to address insecurity, including ongoing amendments to existing laws to impose stricter penalties on criminals and those who support them.
He said lawmakers remain committed to ensuring stability and security across the country, including in remote communities.
