By Ayoola Lawal
Nigeria’s democracy stands at a critical juncture. Recent amendments to the Electoral Act, especially the removal of certificate forgery as a ground for challenging election results under Section 138, raise serious concerns. While the change may appear technical, its implications for accountability are far-reaching.
Elections go beyond vote counting. They reflect the credibility and integrity of those seeking public office. When the law restricts scrutiny of a candidate’s qualifications, it risks signalling that honesty and verified credentials are no longer essential.
A Personal Insight
This concern is not merely theoretical. My experience in politics shows that aspirants who understand party systems can sometimes bypass weak verification processes with forged documents. Many political parties still lack robust mechanisms to authenticate credentials.
“If internal party checks are weak and external legal scrutiny is limited, the system is not being reformed—it is being weakened.”
The situation worsens when combined with Section 138(3), which imposes heavy financial penalties on petitions filed outside recognised grounds. This provision creates a chilling effect, discouraging citizens with legitimate grievances from seeking justice due to high costs.
“Justice must remain accessible. When citizens fear punitive consequences for seeking redress, many will withdraw. That signals a fragile democracy.”
The Path Forward
Civil society organisations, including Afenifere, have warned that removing certificate forgery as a basis for election petitions narrows accountability. That concern is valid and urgent.
Lawmakers must prioritise the protection of democratic integrity. Any legal provision that appears to shield misconduct or limit scrutiny deserves immediate review.
“Democracy does not thrive behind closed doors. It grows stronger through transparency, accountability, and public oversight.”
The reforms enacted today will shape Nigeria’s democratic future. Strengthening verification processes, expanding accountability, and preserving legal pathways for legitimate challenges are essential steps.
Nigeria cannot afford reforms that erode public trust.
