By Olugbenga Salami
Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has said that Nigeria’s new Electoral Act sprang from wide consultation, not legislative decree.
Speaking Sunday in an Easter message he challenged politicians to mirror Christ’s sacrifice and tolerance in public life.
Opposition parties, especially the African Democratic Congress, ADC, have alleged Sections 77 and 84 of the 2026 Act were drafted to weaken their 2027 prospects.
Bamidele, who served on the Senate Electoral Matters Committee, dismissed that claim outright.
He insisted every clause reflects stakeholder consensus, including civil society and development partners, and follows global best practice.
“Now is the time to play by the rules,” he urged, calling for peaceful, orderly politics.
On Section 77(1‑3), requiring a digital party membership register, Bamidele said critics misunderstand its purpose.
Membership, he argued, is the lifeblood of parties; a transparent register stops powerful strangers from hijacking decisions.
“The rule aligns with worldwide norms and promotes collegial, member‑driven governance—not self‑service,“ he said.
Turning to Section 84(1‑3)—limiting primaries to direct votes or consensus—he called it intentional, aimed at ending delegate‑buying.
“Aspirants won’t display cash to compromised delegates; members themselves nominate candidates,” Bamidele explained.
That shift, he added, restores majority rule, the heart of democracy.
The Senate Leader condemned recent armed attacks in Plateau and Kaduna States, vowing parliament will not stand by while rogue elements kill.
Bamidele said lawmakers are working with federal and state authorities to tackle insecurity’s root causes.
“Ongoing amendments to the 2022 Terrorism Act will toughen penalties for kidnappers, financiers and informants,“ he revealed.
He expressed confidence that combined legislative and executive action will soon curb attacks and secure even remote communities.
