A former National Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mike Igini, has strongly criticised the proposed 2026 Electoral Act, describing it as the worst electoral legislation in Nigeria’s history and warning that its provisions could undermine the credibility of future elections.
Igini made the remarks on Thursday in Abuja while speaking at the second annual lecture of the Alumni Association of the National Institute for Security Studies. The event, which brought together security experts, policymakers, and stakeholders in the electoral process, focused on the theme, “Credible Elections and National Security in Nigeria.”
In his address, the former INEC official raised alarm over what he described as a “tragedy” surrounding the proposed legislation, stressing that urgent steps must be taken to correct its shortcomings before the 2027 general elections. According to him, failure to address the issues embedded in the draft law could deprive Nigerians of their fundamental democratic right to choose their leaders through a free, fair, and transparent process.
Igini warned that the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system is at risk if the current trajectory is not reversed, noting that electoral laws play a crucial role in shaping the conduct and outcome of elections. He argued that rather than strengthening democratic institutions, the proposed Act appears to weaken key safeguards that have been built over time.
“The situation is urgent and requires immediate attention,” he said, emphasising that credible elections are not only a democratic necessity but also a cornerstone of national stability and development.
He further explained that a flawed electoral framework could erode public trust in democratic institutions, potentially leading to voter apathy, political unrest, and broader security challenges. According to Igini, when citizens lose confidence in the electoral process, the legitimacy of elected leaders becomes questionable, thereby weakening governance and national cohesion.
Speaking extensively on the link between elections and security, Igini noted that credible electoral processes are essential for maintaining peace and order in any democratic society. He stressed that disputes arising from flawed elections often escalate into crises that threaten national security, making it imperative for Nigeria to get its electoral framework right.
He maintained that Nigeria’s progress and overall quality of life would improve significantly if reforms are implemented to ensure transparency, accountability, and fairness in the electoral process. In his view, credible elections serve as a foundation for good governance, economic development, and social stability.
Igini identified three key institutions as central to the success of credible elections in Nigeria: the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), the judiciary, and security agencies. He stressed that the effectiveness of these institutions depends on their independence, professionalism, and ability to work in synergy.
According to him, INEC must be empowered to operate without political interference, while also being adequately resourced to carry out its constitutional mandate. He noted that the Commission’s credibility is vital to public confidence in the electoral process.
On the role of the judiciary, Igini emphasised the importance of timely and impartial adjudication of electoral disputes. He warned that delays or perceived bias in the judicial process could undermine justice and further erode trust in the system.
“The judiciary must remain the last hope of the common man, especially in electoral matters,” he stated, adding that court decisions play a critical role in determining the legitimacy of election outcomes.
Igini also highlighted the role of security agencies in ensuring peaceful elections, noting that their conduct before, during, and after polls significantly influences the overall credibility of the process. He called for improved training, better coordination, and strict adherence to rules of engagement to prevent intimidation, violence, or misconduct.
He stressed that the relationship among these three institutions must be strengthened through effective collaboration and clear delineation of responsibilities. According to him, any breakdown in coordination could create loopholes that compromise the electoral process.
The former INEC commissioner urged lawmakers and relevant stakeholders to revisit the proposed 2026 Electoral Act with a view to addressing its identified weaknesses. He called for broad-based consultations to ensure that the final legislation reflects the aspirations of Nigerians and aligns with international best practices.
Observers at the event noted that Igini’s comments add to the growing debate surrounding electoral reforms in Nigeria, particularly as the country prepares for the 2027 general elections. Many stakeholders have continued to emphasise the need for a robust legal framework that guarantees transparency, inclusiveness, and accountability.
As discussions around the proposed Act continue, analysts believe that the concerns raised by Igini could influence legislative deliberations and shape the final outcome of the reform process.
With less than two years to the next general elections, the urgency of addressing electoral challenges has become more pronounced. Igini’s warning serves as a reminder that the credibility of Nigeria’s democracy depends largely on the strength of its institutions and the integrity of its laws.
Ultimately, he concluded, ensuring free and fair elections is not just about political competition but about safeguarding the future of the nation and preserving the will of the people.
