The 26th edition of the Open Governance Forum has examined the implications of Nigeria’s newly enacted Electoral Act 2026 ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The programme, themed “New Electoral Act 2026: Impacts Towards the 2027 General Elections,” focused on recent electoral reforms aimed at improving transparency, accountability, and public trust in the electoral process.
Under the new Act, provisions have been made for electronic voter accreditation, electronic transmission of results, and stiffer penalties for electoral offences. These reforms are designed to curb election malpractice and enhance the credibility of future elections.
Speaking during the programme, the guest analyst, Comrade Idris Miliki, Executive Director of Conscience for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution (CHRCR), described the law as a major step toward deepening Nigeria’s democracy.
He noted that the Electoral Act seeks to close long-standing loopholes that have enabled rigging, vote manipulation, and impunity during elections.
Comrade Miliki urged the Independent National Electoral Commission to demonstrate full readiness in implementing the new law, while also drawing attention to possible challenges such as network failures, cyber interference, and institutional capacity gaps.
He further questioned whether the stricter penalties prescribed by the Act would effectively deter electoral offenders and restore public confidence in the voting process.
The programme also emphasized the importance of voter education, improved technological infrastructure, and strong political will to ensure full compliance with the new legislation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
The Open Governance Forum is a current affairs radio programme organized by the Initiative for Grassroot Advancement in Nigeria (INGRA) in partnership with Conscience for Human Rights and Conflict Resolution (CHRCR), with support from Situation Room and the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO).
The organizers called on Nigerians to remain actively engaged in the democratic process and to demand accountability from political leaders and electoral institutions.
