Abuja: The Inter-Party Advisory Council (IPAC) has issued a stern warning that it may boycott the 2027 general elections if the National Assembly does not address its concerns regarding the Electoral Act 2026. This development was revealed in a communiqu© released after the council’s General Assembly meeting held at its secretariat in Abuja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the communiqu©, which was jointly signed by IPAC National Chairman Yusuf Dantalle and National Secretary Maxwell Mgbudem, highlighted that certain provisions in the Electoral Act 2026 introduced challenges that could hinder the growth of political parties in Nigeria’s multi-party democracy. Dantalle emphasized that these sections undermine the fundamental objectives of political parties and contradict the principles of democratic participation and political inclusion.
Dantalle stated that IPAC is committed to drawing the attention of Nigerians and the international community, including the United Nations, European Union, and the Economic Community of West African States, to these issues. He noted that the council has set minimum conditions that must be met by the National Assembly to ensure free, fair, credible, and inclusive elections in 2027. IPAC also reserves the right to legally challenge the contentious provisions of the Electoral Act 2026 if not resolved.
The communiqu© criticized Section 84(2) of the Act, which excludes indirect primaries, arguing that this violates the rights of political parties and could weaken party structures. Furthermore, IPAC called for the removal of the requirement for political party members to upload their National Identification Number (NIN) during registration, as it may disenfranchise many Nigerians.
IPAC demanded the expungement of Sections 77(4), (5), (6), and (7), which it claims infringe on citizens’ right to freedom of association. The council also called for the restoration of mandatory electronic transmission of election results and recommended stronger penalties for vote buying. Additionally, it urged lawmakers to restore forged certificates as valid grounds for election petitions, emphasizing the importance of leadership integrity.
The council reaffirmed its role in defending the democratic process during the 2023 presidential election and reiterated its commitment to strengthening democracy. However, it warned that electoral reforms must ensure transparency, inclusiveness, and respect for constitutional principles.