Senate Actions Raise Alarm Over Electoral Integrity!

Reported by Marian opeyemi Fasesan (Editor -in- chief) | Sele Media Africa

Today, the Nigerian Senate (@SenateNGR) approved measures that significantly weaken the electoral process. Lawmakers rejected the electronic transmission of results, blocked access to downloadable electronic voter cards on INEC’s website, and drastically shortened critical election timelines. The notice period for elections was reduced from 360 days to 180 days, while the window for publishing the list of candidates was cut from 150 days to just 60 days.

Shortened Timelines Threaten Credible Elections

These compressed timelines increase the likelihood of logistical failures, voter confusion, and administrative lapses during elections. Rather than strengthening the system, the decisions taken today risk undermining the credibility of future polls.

Not Reform, but a Breach of Public Trust

What the Senate passed cannot be described as electoral reform. It represents a betrayal of public trust and a deliberate effort to weaken safeguards designed to protect transparent, free, and fair elections.

Senate and House Positions in Sharp Contrast

The Senate’s stance stands in clear opposition to the more progressive position adopted by the House of Representatives (@HouseNGR), which supports reforms aimed at making every vote count.

Call for Conference Committee Intervention

We urge the Conference Committee to reject the Senate’s provisions and restore reforms that will strengthen electoral integrity and protect the will of the people ahead of the 2027 general elections.

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