2027: Falana Faults Senate Over Delays in Electoral Act Amendment
Human rights lawyer and Senior Advocate of Nigeria, Femi Falana, has criticised the Nigerian Senate over repeated delays in passing the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, warning that the actions could undermine the credibility of the 2027 general elections.
Falana expressed concern over the Senate’s decision to set up another committee to review the bill, despite its passage by the House of Representatives in December 2025. He described the move as unnecessary and indicative of an attempt to preserve the status quo rather than implement meaningful electoral reforms.
According to him, the amendment bill is designed to address critical gaps in Nigeria’s electoral process, including electronic transmission of results, tougher penalties for vote-buying, voting rights for inmates, and sanctions against delegates who receive financial inducements during party primaries. He argued that lawmakers were focusing on issues already covered by existing laws instead of ensuring proper enforcement of electoral provisions.
Falana also recalled that major recommendations on electoral reforms, such as the establishment of an electoral offences commission proposed in 2008, remain unimplemented. He stressed the need for clear legal provisions on electronic accreditation and transmission of results to prevent controversies similar to those witnessed in previous elections.
Beyond electoral matters, Falana commented on the trial of alleged military coup plotters, insisting that only the Federal High Court has the constitutional authority to handle treason-related offences. He urged the government to strictly adhere to constitutional provisions.
He further criticised the Lagos State Government’s approach to protests and demolitions, stating that due process and citizens’ rights were often ignored. He maintained that the right to protest and criticise public officials is fundamental to democracy and should be protected.
Falana concluded by calling on Nigerians and civil society groups to pressure the National Assembly to ensure the timely passage of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill, warning that without sustained public pressure, the bill may not be enacted before the next general elections.
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