Former Resident Electoral Commissioner of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), Mike Igini, has raised concerns over Section 63 of the newly signed Electoral Act 2026, warning that it could open the door to electoral manipulation ahead of the 2027 general elections.
Igini highlighted what he described as a major flaw in the provision, which reportedly allows returning officers to accept ballot papers that do not bear official INEC security features, provided they are deemed satisfactory.
According to him, such discretion could undermine the integrity of the electoral process if not clearly defined and strictly regulated.
Critics of the provision argue that the clause may create room for politicians or political actors to print unofficial ballot papers for potential use at polling units, thereby compromising transparency and credibility. They warn that without strict safeguards, the interpretation of what qualifies as “satisfactory” ballot papers could become subjective and prone to abuse.
The Electoral Act 2026 was recently signed into law as part of efforts to reform Nigeria’s electoral framework ahead of the 2027 elections. However, stakeholders have begun scrutinising specific sections of the legislation amid fears of unintended loopholes.
Observers say the debate over Section 63 is likely to intensify in the coming weeks, with calls expected for clarification, amendment, or supplementary guidelines to protect the sanctity of the ballot.
As preparations gradually begin for the 2027 polls, electoral transparency advocates are urging lawmakers and INEC to address any ambiguities that could erode public trust in the democratic process.
