‘Confusion, Crisis Are Inevitable’ – Sam Amadi Criticizes Senate Over Delay Of Electoral Act Amendment

Director of the Abuja School of Social and Political Thought, Sam Amadi, has warned that confusion and crisis will be inevitable during the 2027 election if the Senate continues to delay the passage of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill.

Naija News reports that Amadi, during an interview on ARISE Television, said the postponement could disrupt electoral timelines, affect political party preparations, and prevent the new provisions from being adequately implemented.

He argued that while the 2022 Electoral Act already provides for most innovations, including electronic transmission of results, Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) regulations are legally sufficient, independent, and enforceable.

He said, “The election process has many timelines, dating from the Constitution, which sets when elections must hold, time for election litigation, and swearing-in of winners. If the Electoral Act is not enacted on time, confusion and crisis are inevitable. Parties may be planning primaries without clarity on the rules, and we could repeat the mistakes of 2023 when INEC had to extend deadlines at the last minute.

“The 2022 Act prescribes that INEC will transmit election results using its chosen mode. INEC can review results for several days before declaration. Delays in the amendment are unnecessary if INEC functions efficiently.”

According to Amadi, new party delegates will face challenges under the proposed changes.

He stated, “Statutory delegates have been abolished under the new law. Parties themselves are struggling to adapt. If the amendment is not passed timely, they won’t understand the new rules and could face litigation or electoral disputes.”

Amadi further explained that the Senate’s delay could complicate the appointment and orientation of new INEC leadership, which requires adequate preparation time to ensure smooth elections.

He added, “Most commissioners are due for reappointment. They need time to learn, plan, test systems, and implement procedures effectively. Without timely enactment, INEC and political parties will face avoidable obstacles.”