IPAC Electoral Act criticism highlights concerns that new amendments reduce penalties for certificate forgery and vote buying, undermining democratic integrity

The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has criticised the newly amended Electoral Act, warning that the law significantly reduces penalties for certificate forgery and vote buying, undermining democratic accountability.

Also read: Civil Society Urges Public Access to Nigeria’s Electoral Act 2026

National Chairman Yusuf Dantalle raised the concerns during a Wednesday interview on Arise Television Prime Time, calling the reduction in punishment “anti-democratic” and “dysfunctional.”

Dantalle noted that the legislation, signed into law by President Bola Tinubu shortly after its passage by the National Assembly, treats serious electoral offenses with undue levity.

“The person who will make laws and appointments cannot be elected through a feeble process. Penalties for infractions should not be trivialised,” he said.

He further argued that elections determine critical state leadership, including the Chief Security Officer responsible for public welfare and safety.

Reducing the severity of penalties for electoral fraud, Dantalle warned, compromises governance at the state and national levels.

IPAC also reiterated recommendations made during legislative consultations prior to the enactment of the law.

The council had urged that the appointment of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) chairman and commissioners be removed from executive influence and instead handled by an independent body of legal experts, civil society organisations, and political parties.

According to Dantalle, these recommendations were ignored.

Also read: Rufai Oseni Blasts Opposition Over Electoral Act

“The law must ensure that elections are free, fair, and credible. Anything less undermines democracy and public trust,” he said.