The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has accused Senate President Godswill Akpabio of undermining Nigeria’s democratic and ethical standards through his involvement in the passage of the Electoral Act 2026.
In a statement on Sunday, ADC National Publicity Secretary Bolaji Abdullahi condemned provisions of the law that, according to the party, appear designed to protect dishonesty, weaken opposition parties, and erode public trust in the nation’s democracy.
Akpabio, speaking at a reception for President Tinubu’s wife, Remi Tinubu, in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, on Saturday, dismissed opposition criticism of the Electoral Act, insisting that the legislation was properly enacted.
Responding, the ADC warned that history would judge the Senate President harshly for imposing the 2026 Electoral Act on Nigerians, particularly the clause removing certificate forgery as a valid ground to challenge election results, which the party says will be a lasting stain on the ruling party’s legacy.
The party stated,
“The African Democratic Congress notes Senate President Akpabio’s comments dismissing opposition objections to the Electoral Act as evidence of the law’s correctness. This logic exposes the underlying intent of the amendment—to satisfy the ruling party rather than the nation.
“Laws should advance national aspirations and promote the common good. In today’s environment, however, the legislature has enacted rules that lower ethical standards. How can anyone justify a law allowing elections to stand despite certificate forgery, contradicting constitutional provisions in Sections 66, 107, 137, and 182?”
The ADC emphasized that the amendment creates a constitutional conflict and demonstrates the lengths to which the ruling party will go to protect its interests.
“This legislation sends a dangerous message to Nigerians, particularly young people, suggesting that certificate forgery carries no serious consequences. Laws that protect dishonesty weaken democracy, tarnish Nigeria’s global reputation, and reinforce harmful stereotypes about corruption.”
The party added that while Akpabio may focus on ridiculing opposition parties, Nigerians will judge leaders by their records.
“The legacy of this National Assembly risks being remembered as one of the most compromised in Nigeria’s democratic history, having lowered ethical standards to serve a single individual. The ADC remains committed to offering a credible political alternative focused on integrity, competence, and accountability. History will remember those who defended democracy and those who undermined it.”
