ADC accuses APC of plotting to rig 2027 elections

By Goli Innocent

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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused the All Progressives Congress (APC)-led Senate of attempting to manipulate the 2027 general elections by refusing to implement mandatory electronic transmission of results in the Electoral Act.

The opposition party described the 10th Senate’s decision as retrogressive and a threat to Nigeria’s democracy, urging all citizens to reject the move.

In a statement released by the ADC’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the party expressed disappointment that the Senate had blocked reforms intended to improve the credibility and efficiency of INEC and ensure transparent elections.

“The African Democratic Congress strongly condemns the decision of the 10th APC-led Senate to reject critical provisions that would have strengthened the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral process,” the statement said.

Senate actions labelled anti-democratic

According to the ADC, the Senate’s actions particularly refusing electronic transmission of results, blocking electronic voter card downloads, and shortening election notice periods amount to a deliberate attempt to undermine free and fair elections.

“Foremost among these is the rejection of electronic transmission of election results, a move that clearly signals another attempt by the APC to manipulate future elections and erode voter confidence,” Abdullahi said.

The party further criticised the Senate for reducing the timeline for publishing candidate lists from 150 to 60 days, warning that these decisions could create logistical challenges for INEC and open the door for electoral malpractice.

APC accused of exploiting majority to cling to power

The ADC argued that the Senate’s refusal to implement reforms highlights the ruling party’s fear of facing free and fair elections, despite its current political dominance.

“The APC has exploited its majority in the National Assembly to tamper with electoral laws, creating opportunities for malpractice and undermining public trust,” the statement added.

The party stressed that these actions betray a desire to cling to power at all costs and called on Nigerians to hold the APC accountable.

Call for action from the Conference Committee

The ADC urged the Conference Committee on the Electoral Act to reject the Senate’s submission and pass amendments that align with democratic principles and reflect the will of the Nigerian people.

“As Nigeria’s leading opposition party, the ADC calls on all Nigerians to reject this retrogressive decision and demand reforms that strengthen the electoral system,” Abdullahi concluded.