Akpabio: “We’ll Amend Electoral Act To Avoid Becoming Victims Of Our Own Actions

According to Ireporter Online, Akpabio stated that certain sections of the law created unexpected challenges for legislators seeking re-election ahead of the 2027 general elections, prompting lawmakers to consider adjustments.

The Senate President made the revelation on Tuesday during the opening ceremony of the 2026 National Assembly Open Week and the presentation of the Third-Year Legislative Scorecard of the 10th Assembly in Abuja.

His comments came after a number of senators and members of the House of Representatives lost their parties’ tickets during recent primary elections, raising concerns among lawmakers over some aspects of the electoral process.

Akpabio acknowledged that the Electoral Act had contributed significantly to improving the conduct of party primaries by reducing cases of violence and irregularities across the country. However, he noted that some areas of the legislation required further review to address challenges experienced by politicians during nomination exercises.

“From even the Electoral Act that we passed, you can see not so many people were killed, if any, in many of the states of the federation during these primaries. But we shall tinker with the Act again to make sure that we are not the victims of our own actions,” Akpabio said.

Although he did not mention the specific sections that may be amended, the Senate President assured lawmakers that the review would focus on preventing similar difficulties for future candidates.

He added that retaining experienced lawmakers in the legislature would be beneficial to the country due to the knowledge and expertise they bring to governance.

Akpabio also defended the performance of the 10th National Assembly, describing it as one of the most peaceful and productive legislatures since Nigeria’s return to democratic rule in 1999.

He highlighted the Assembly’s achievements in lawmaking, constitutional reforms and economic legislation, attributing the progress to cooperation between the legislature and the executive arm of government.

Addressing criticisms surrounding some proposed laws, including the establishment of state police, Akpabio said the National Assembly had conducted extensive consultations and public hearings before presenting the bills.

He urged Nigerians to study proposed legislation thoroughly before making judgments, noting that lawmakers’ responsibility was to create laws that would serve future generations.

Akpabio maintained that the National Assembly’s objective was to enact enduring laws that would protect Nigeria’s interests and strengthen democratic institutions.