Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has joined other leaders of Nigeria’s main opposition parties in Abuja to reject the recently signed 2026 Electoral Act.
Speaking at a joint press conference, the opposition leaders called for a fresh enactment of the law in line with Nigerians’ aspirations.
Atiku expressed full support for Ajuji Ahmed, who criticised provisions of the Act, particularly Section 60(3), which allows the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to revert to manual transmission of results in cases of alleged network failure, despite the country having over 90 per cent internet coverage.
The opposition leaders also rejected Section 84(2), which mandates political parties to conduct primaries either by direct or consensus mode.
Describing the 2026 amendment as “offensive, anti-democratic, and a deliberate attempt by the APC-led National Assembly to undermine transparency and the sanctity of elections,” Atiku urged all opposition parties to unite in defending Nigeria’s democracy ahead of the 2027 elections.
“Now is the time to push back on the rigging plan,” he said.
It was earlier gathered that leaders of the opposition parties held a press conference at Transcorp Hilton, Maitama, in Abuja.
The briefing, themed “Urgent Call to Save Nigeria’s Democracy,” brought together prominent opposition leaders.
Those present included the National Chairman of the NNPP, Ahmed Ajuji, and prominent members of the New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), notably Buba Galadima.
Also in attendance were ADC opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, former Minister of Transportation Rotimi Amaechi, former Osun State Governor Rauf Aregbesola, and ADC National Chairman David Mark.
