The Tinubu Media Support Group (TMSG) has lauded President Bola Tinubu for his prompt signing of the Electoral Act 2026, describing it as a decisive step toward ensuring a seamless and transparent general election in 2027.
In a statement issued by Chairman Emeka Nwankpa and Secretary Dapo Okubanjo, the group noted that the President’s assent—coming within 24 hours of the bill’s passage by the National Assembly—demonstrates the political will to modernize Nigeria’s electoral framework.
Codifying Technology and Transparency
The TMSG highlighted that the new law officially recognizes the Bi-modal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) and the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV). Previously, these tools were operated based on INEC guidelines; their codification now provides a firm legal foundation for electronic result transmission.
Key highlights of the 2026 Act noted by the group include:
- Hybrid Transmission: Electronic transmission of results from polling units remains the primary method, with manual transmission of Form EC8A retained as a mandatory backup in case of technological failure.
- Stricter Sanctions: The Act introduces stiffer penalties for electoral offenses, including the falsification of results.
- Over-voting Control: Reinforced measures to prevent and penalize over-voting during polls.
- Streamlined Primaries: Party primary processes have been refined to focus on consensus or direct primary models.
Timetable Flexibility and Funding
The group emphasized that the reduction of the mandatory notice period for elections from 360 days to 300 days is a strategic move. This adjustment allows INEC the necessary “leeway” to modify the 2027 election timetable, which was previously expected to clash with the Ramadan fast.
Furthermore, the Act ensures the early release of funds to the electoral umpire, providing INEC with the financial stability needed for long-term planning.
Immediate Impact
The TMSG pointed out that by signing the bill ahead of the upcoming Area Council Elections in the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), the President has ensured the new provisions take immediate effect.
”We agree with the President that no matter how beautiful a process is with improved technology, the onus lies on the people manning it to show good faith and ensure that the votes of the people really count,” the statement read.
The group concluded by urging the present INEC management to utilize the new legal framework to deliver a credible electioneering process that earns the trust of all Nigerians.