The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has warned that public officials will ultimately be judged by history over their handling of the newly amended Electoral Act, expressing deep concern about the manner in which the legislation was passed and its potential impact on Nigeria’s democracy.
In a statement issued in Abuja by its National Publicity Secretary, Egbeola Wale Martins, the council said the circumstances surrounding the passage of the Electoral Act Amendment had raised serious questions about transparency and public confidence in the electoral process. IPAC cautioned that decisions taken while in office could either protect or haunt leaders long after they leave power, stressing that history remains the ultimate judge of public conduct.
According to the council, the process that led to the amendment created the impression that partisan interests may have taken precedence over national interest, a development it said does not inspire confidence in Nigeria’s democratic system. IPAC reiterated its long-standing position that the mandatory electronic transmission of election results directly from polling units to the Independent National Electoral Commission’s Result Viewing portal without additional conditions remains the minimum standard required to ensure credibility, transparency and public trust in elections.
The council also reminded lawmakers that legislation carries far-reaching consequences for democratic stability, describing lawmaking as a sacred national duty that must be guided by patriotism and the collective interest of citizens rather than personal or partisan considerations. It urged all democratic institutions to act in ways that strengthen Nigeria’s democratic foundations.
IPAC further condemned the police use of tear gas on protesters at the National Assembly during demonstrations against the bill before it was signed into law. It said the deployment of force against citizens who were lawfully expressing their views was inconsistent with democratic norms and contrary to constitutional governance. The right to peaceful protest, it added, is fundamental in any democracy and must be protected.
The council called on the Inspector-General of Police to ensure that officers act in accordance with constitutional responsibilities and uphold citizens’ rights, while reiterating that the long-term health of Nigeria’s democracy depends on transparent, credible and inclusive electoral processes.
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