Alhaji Buba Galadima, a prominent figure in the New Nigeria People’s Party (NNPP), has criticised key provisions of the Electoral Act 2026, warning that recent amendments could undermine Nigeria’s democracy, weaken electoral integrity, and create opportunities for manipulation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Speaking on Frontline, a current affairs programme on Eagle 102.5 FM, Ilese-Ijebu, monitored by New Telegraph, Galadima described the shortened statutory timeline for election preparations given to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) as “unrealistic and counter-productive.”
“Even if you calculate backwards, INEC cannot meet the 360-day timeline, let alone a shorter one. This only creates unnecessary pressure that could lead to chaos,” he said.
He also criticised the National Assembly for leaving discretionary powers with INEC over electronic transmission of results, arguing that the provision opens the system to abuse. “The Senate is only wise by half. They shift responsibility to INEC, which is appointed by the executive, and INEC is likely to act according to the executive’s wishes,” Galadima said.
The NNPP stalwart accused lawmakers of prioritising self-interest over national progress, stating, “We expected each electoral bill to improve on the last, but this one serves personal protection for the Senate. There is no innovation here; the 2022 Act would have sufficed.”
Galadima further questioned INEC’s independence, noting that the commission lacks the institutional leverage to resist political pressure. “This INEC does not even have the means to call anyone to order, which clearly indicates what may happen in the next election,” he warned.
On judicial interference, Galadima decried growing involvement of judges in internal party matters, calling it harmful to democracy. “A Supreme Court justice once warned judges against meddling in party politics. It is disgraceful that judges now take partisan positions, as seen in Ibadan,” he said.
Rejecting claims that electronic voting and transmission are unworkable in Nigeria, Galadima insisted that technology today makes it feasible. “Deliberate glitches, not accidents, hindered previous attempts. Other countries even offered satellite coverage to ensure free and fair elections, but the government declined to maintain control,” he alleged.
He also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of using state institutions to weaken opposition parties and force defections. “People are not joining APC due to good governance—they fear prosecution for past offences. Nigerians are not fools,” he stated.
Galadima called on citizens to actively defend democracy, urging public engagement and vigilance. “Democracy survives only if the people defend it. Every citizen must have the right to accept or reject any government act,” he concluded.
