The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has criticised Senate President Godswill Akpabio over his remarks concerning the Electoral Act 2026, accusing him of promoting legislation that undermines democratic and ethical standards in Nigeria.
In a statement issued on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the party condemned certain provisions in the amended law, arguing that they were crafted to weaken opposition parties, shield dishonest practices, and reduce public trust in the country’s democratic process.
Akpabio had spoken on Saturday in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, during a reception organised for the First Lady, Remi Tinubu, wife of President Bola Tinubu. During the event, he dismissed complaints from opposition parties about the Electoral Act 2026, insisting the criticism proved that the National Assembly had enacted the right law.
According to him, opposition parties currently criticising the law were largely unprepared for upcoming elections.
“Each time we make a law and the opposition frowns, I get excited that we have made the right law,” the Senate President said.
He added that while the ruling party was already mobilising across the country and preparing politically, many opposition groups were still struggling to organise themselves or complete party registration ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Akpabio also criticised internal divisions within some opposition parties, pointing to leadership disputes in the Labour Party and the Peoples Democratic Party.
Reacting to the remarks, the ADC said the Senate President should expect history to judge his role in the passage of the Electoral Act 2026, particularly over a controversial provision that removed certificate forgery as a valid ground for challenging election results.
The party argued that the amendment contradicts sections of the Nigerian Constitution which disqualify individuals who present forged certificates to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) from holding public office.
According to the ADC, such a change creates a constitutional conflict and sends a troubling message about the country’s commitment to integrity in public service.
The party further stated that laws are typically amended to improve governance and reflect national aspirations, not to weaken accountability or ethical standards.
It added that Nigerians would ultimately judge political leaders by their actions and legislative record, stressing that the ADC remains focused on presenting what it described as a credible political alternative capable of restoring integrity and accountability in governance.
