The Movement for the Transformation of Nigeria (MOT!ON) has raised concerns over the ongoing review of the Electoral Act 2022, questioning whether the exercise is genuinely aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democracy or driven by political self-interest.
The group called for transparency and inclusivity in the review process, stressing that any amendments must serve the broader interests of Nigerians rather than a privileged few.
In a statement jointly signed by Hauwa Mustapha, Convener; Christopher Isiguzo and Blessing Alims, Co-Conveners; and Dr. Otive Igbuzor, a member of the Steering Committee, MOT!ON described the review as a critical juncture in Nigeria’s 26 years of uninterrupted democratic governance since 1999.
“As stakeholders await the outcome of the review being undertaken by the 10th National Assembly, led by Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Tajudeen Abbas, a fundamental question lingers: whose interests are truly being served?” the group asked.
It further queried whether the proposed amendments would prioritise transparency, accountability and the will of the people, or whether they would entrench power and protect vested interests.
MOT!ON said it stands firmly with Nigerians in demanding that the review of the Electoral Act 2022 be transparent, inclusive and reflective of a genuine commitment by the National Assembly to strengthen the country’s electoral framework.
The movement noted that credible and inclusive elections are central to democratic values and fundamental to building a strong and functional democracy. According to the statement, elections confer legitimacy on governments and provide a clear mandate to govern effectively when they accurately reflect the will of the people.
“Fair elections reduce tensions and promote peaceful transitions of power, thereby ensuring national stability. Inclusive elections guarantee that diverse voices are heard, while transparent processes build trust in institutions and strengthen democratic governance,” MOT!ON said.
At what it described as a critical moment, the group urged members of the National Assembly to seize the opportunity to rebuild public trust in the electoral process, stressing that the review presents a chance to correct past shortcomings and collectively strengthen Nigeria’s democracy.
MOT!ON cautioned against turning the review of the Electoral Act into a vehicle for self-serving agendas, urging lawmakers to approach the process with seriousness and urgency in line with growing public interest.
The movement also expressed concern over what it described as growing anxiety among stakeholders and perceived delays by relevant National Assembly committees in amending the Act ahead of the 2027 general elections.
According to MOT!ON, failure to amend the Electoral Act before the next elections poses significant risks to Nigeria’s democratic process, noting that gaps in the current law could further entrench electoral fraud, create barriers for petitioners challenging election results in court, and erode public confidence in the electoral system.
“These shortcomings undermine the legitimacy of elected officials and may lead to increased post-election disputes, potentially destabilising the country,” the group warned.
MOT!ON further noted that delays in amending the law could shorten the preparation time available to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), leading to rushed guidelines and potentially compromising electoral integrity.
The group concluded by urging lawmakers to act decisively to ensure timely and meaningful reforms that would guarantee credible, inclusive and peaceful elections in Nigeria.
