Stop The Outrage!” – Akpabio Slams Critics Over Electoral Act Controversy

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has criticised Nigerians faulting the Senate over the ongoing amendment of the Electoral Act, insisting that the legislative process has not been concluded.....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

Speaking at the public presentation of “The Burden of Legislators in Nigeria,” a book authored by Senator Effiong Bob, at the NAF Centre in Abuja on Saturday, Akpabio said the Senate would not bow to pressure or intimidation but would deliver an Electoral Act that strengthens Nigeria’s democracy.

He explained that the uproar surrounding Section 60(3) of the Electoral Act was premature, noting that the amendment process was still underway and far from finalised.

According to him, the Senate has yet to approve the votes and proceedings, stressing that harmonisation remains ongoing and changes can still be made.

“We have not passed the votes and proceedings. There is still harmonisation, yet people are already on television panels attacking the Senate over an issue that is not concluded,” Akpabio said.

He added that once the votes and proceedings are presented, any senator retains the right to propose amendments before final approval.

“We can amend anything before the votes and proceedings are approved. Why condemn the Senate over a process that is still incomplete?” he asked.

Akpabio maintained that the Senate would continue to act in Nigeria’s best interest rather than bow to the demands of pressure groups.

“We will not be intimidated. We will do what is right for Nigeria, not what suits one NGO. Retreats are not lawmaking,” he stated.

Clarifying the Senate’s position on the controversial removal of the phrase “real-time” from the bill, Akpabio said the intention was to allow the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) the flexibility to determine the most suitable mode of result transmission.

He warned that making real-time transmission mandatory could jeopardise elections in areas with poor network coverage or power supply.

“If real-time transmission is enforced and systems fail, it could lead to a catastrophe. There would be no results in states or communities without network or electricity,” he said.

Akpabio further noted that the process remains open to further input through the conference committee and final approval of votes and proceedings, stressing that technology should enhance, not threaten, democratic processes.