ADC Rejects Discretionary Clauses in Electoral Amendment Bill
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has issued a follow-up statement clarifying its position on the Electoral Amendment Bill recently passed by the 10th Senate, expressing concerns over provisions it says could weaken the integrity of election result transmission.
The party explained that its initial reaction was based on early media reports suggesting that the Senate had approved a version of the Bill guaranteeing real-time electronic transmission of election results — a reform widely regarded as essential for safeguarding votes and strengthening electoral credibility.
However, the ADC said subsequent and more detailed reports revealed that the Bill contains controversial discretionary clauses that may undermine the guarantee of real-time transmission and potentially create room for manipulation during result collation.
“In light of these facts now on record, the ADC wishes to clarify its position,” the party stated.
According to the party, any provision that introduces ambiguity, discretion, or technical loopholes in the transmission and collation of election results fundamentally threatens the integrity of Nigeria’s electoral system.
The ADC stressed that credible elections must be anchored on clear and unambiguous legal safeguards, not on assurances or interpretations that could be subject to abuse.
“The credibility of elections rests not on assurances but on clear, unambiguous legal guarantees that protect the will of the people,” the statement read.
The party maintained that only an Electoral Amendment Act that unequivocally mandates real-time electronic transmission of results — without exceptions capable of exploitation — can earn public trust and reinforce democratic governance.
It therefore called on the National Assembly to urgently review the Bill and remove any provisions that dilute the safeguard of electronic transmission. The ADC further urged lawmakers to align the final version of the legislation with the recommendations of the Conference Committee, which reportedly advocated mandatory e-transmission of election results.
Reaffirming its stance, the party pledged continued support for transparent, credible, and verifiable elections, stating that it remains committed to defending the integrity of Nigeria’s democratic process.
