Prominent opposition leaders, including former Vice President Atiku Abubakar, former Senate President David Mark, former Anambra State Governor Peter Obi, and former Rivers State Governor Rotimi Amaechi, have gathered in Abuja ahead of a world press conference themed “Urgent Call to Save Nigeria’s Democracy.”
The opposition figures, drawn from the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), African Democratic Congress (ADC), and New Nigeria Peoples Party (NNPP), are expected to brief journalists on concerns surrounding the newly enacted 2026 Electoral Act.
The meeting follows the passage of the amendment by the National Assembly and its subsequent signing into law by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
Despite the President’s assent, opposition parties have expressed dissatisfaction with several provisions. A major concern is the absence of mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results from polling units.
Opposition leaders are pushing for compulsory electronic transmission to improve transparency and strengthen confidence in future elections.
Another controversial provision allows manual collation of results in cases of network failure. Opposition parties and some civil society groups warn that the clause could weaken transparency and create room for manipulation.
The leaders are expected to present their objections and proposed amendments during the press conference.
Other attendees include former Cross River State Governor Liyel Imoke; former Osun State Governor and ADC National Secretary Rauf Aregbesola; former ADC National Chairman Ralph Nwosu; Salihu Lukman; and Senator Dino Melaye, among others.
The conference was convened by leaders of major opposition parties as stakeholders continue to debate the impact of the amended Electoral Act on Nigeria’s democracy.
