Senate Leader explains Tinubu's swift assent to Electoral Act Amendment
Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele clarified President Tinubu's rapid signing of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026, just 24 hours after controversial passage. Bamidele stated the bill resulted from collective drafting involving National Assembly, OAGF, INEC, CSOs, and development partners. He argued the president's quick assent was justified given stakeholder contributions, rejecting claims of urgency without merit. However, critics remain concerned over Clause 60 making electronic transmission optional, despite penalties for obstruction. The amendment strengthens INEC's financial autonomy (Clause 3), mandates BVAS for voter accreditation (Clause 47), and imposes fines for blocking result transmission (Clause 60). Bamidele claims these reforms enhance electoral credibility and reduce disputes, though opposition groups demand mandatory electronic transmission.