CNPP alleges plot to stall Electoral Reforms before 2027 Polls

The Conference of Nigeria Political Parties (CNPP) has raised alarm over what it described as a calculated attempt to frustrate comprehensive electoral reforms ahead of the 2027 General Elections, following the recent release of the election timetable by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).

INEC had formally unveiled its schedule for the 2027 polls in compliance with constitutional and statutory requirements.

However, the CNPP said the circumstances surrounding the announcement point to deeper political manoeuvring that could undermine efforts to amend the Electoral Act 2022 before the commencement of the next electoral cycle.

In a statement, the umbrella body of political parties expressed concern over what it termed the persistent delay by the Senate in concluding legislative work on proposed amendments to the Electoral Act.

According to the CNPP, emerging developments suggest that the delay may have been orchestrated to create a procedural environment that could enable President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to withhold assent to any eventual amendment bill on the grounds that the electoral process has already begun with the release of the timetable.

The CNPP described the development as troubling and potentially damaging to Nigeria’s democratic progress, noting that electoral reforms have enjoyed broad support across party lines, civil society groups and democracy advocates.

It argued that key areas requiring urgent legislative attention include legal clarity on electronic transmission of results, stronger enforcement mechanisms against electoral malpractices, improvements in internal party democracy and safeguards against manipulation of the electoral process.

The group warned that proceeding into the 2027 elections without strengthening the legal framework risks further eroding public confidence in the electoral system, potentially worsening voter apathy and undermining the legitimacy of elected leaders.

While acknowledging the President’s constitutional powers regarding assent to legislation, the CNPP urged Tinubu to prioritise democratic consolidation over partisan considerations and support reforms that enhance transparency and credibility.

It also called on the National Assembly to expedite action on all outstanding electoral reform bills to ensure that necessary amendments are concluded and transmitted for presidential assent without delay.

Reaffirming its commitment to electoral integrity, the CNPP maintained that credible elections remain the foundation of democratic governance and warned that Nigeria must not allow political expediency to derail reforms critical to the stability of its democracy.