Tambuwal Accuses Senate Leadership of Forcing Electoral Act Provision

Senator Aminu Waziri Tambuwal has accused the leadership of the Nigerian Senate of pushing through a section of the Electoral Act without proper amendment despite strong objections from minority lawmakers.

Tambuwal made the allegation in an interview with the BBC, stating that tension erupted on the Senate floor after opposition members demanded a review of the controversial section of the bill but were overruled.

According to the former Sokoto State governor, the initial proposal was for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) to adjust the notice period for elections from 360 days to 300 days.

He explained that the proposed change was intended to align the electoral timetable with next year’s Ramadan period.

However, Tambuwal alleged that the process was rushed.

“It was forced on us in approving a section of the Electoral Act,” he said.

The lawmaker claimed that information available to minority lawmakers indicated that the leadership of both chambers and the Harmonisation Committee had already met and reached a decision largely reflected in the Senate’s earlier position.

He said this prompted opposition lawmakers to express disagreement and demand an open vote.

“That was when we expressed our disagreement, insisting that there should have been an open vote to allow lawmakers to publicly declare their positions,” Tambuwal added.

Tambuwal further warned that the development could create room for manipulation.

“We believe this could open a window for electoral malpractice, which is what we are trying to avoid,” he said.