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The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly criticised Godswill Akpabio, accusing the Senate President of weakening Nigeria’s democratic values through his involvement in the passage of the Electoral Act 2026.
In a statement released on Sunday by its National Publicity Secretary, Bolaji Abdullahi, the opposition party argued that some provisions in the amended law were deliberately crafted to shield dishonest politicians, weaken opposition parties, and reduce public trust in the country’s democratic process.
The criticism followed remarks made by Akpabio during a reception held in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, for Nigeria’s First Lady, Remi Tinubu. While speaking at the event on Saturday, the Senate President dismissed complaints from opposition parties about the new electoral law, insisting that the National Assembly acted appropriately in passing it.
Reacting to the statement, the ADC said Akpabio’s role in pushing through the Electoral Act 2026 would attract negative judgment from history. The party particularly condemned a controversial provision in the law that removes certificate forgery as a valid ground for challenging election results.
According to the party, the change contradicts several sections of the Nigerian Constitution, which clearly state that anyone who submits forged documents to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) is disqualified from holding public office.
“The logic behind the Senate President’s statement reveals the real motive behind the electoral amendment,” the party said. “The changes appear designed mainly to satisfy the ruling party rather than improve Nigeria’s democratic system.”
The ADC argued that legislative amendments should strengthen laws and promote national development, not weaken ethical standards. It described the move as an example of a failing democratic system where lawmakers allegedly pass laws that lower moral and governance standards.
The party further warned that the amendment sends a damaging signal to Nigerians, particularly young people, by suggesting that serious misconduct such as certificate forgery may no longer carry meaningful consequences in the political system.
ADC also accused the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) of pushing the controversial provision out of political desperation, adding that the amendment creates a constitutional conflict and undermines Nigeria’s reputation globally.
While Akpabio may continue to dismiss criticism from opposition parties, the ADC said Nigerians would ultimately judge political leaders by them.
The party maintained that it would remain focused on building itself into a credible political alternative capable of restoring accountability, integrity, and effective governance in the country. It added that history would eventually remember those who defended democratic principles and those who helped weaken them.