No electoral act amendment before 2027 polls -Bamidele

The Leader of the Senate, Senator Opeyemi Bamidele, has ruled out any amendment to the Electoral Act before the 2027 general elections, saying the National Assembly will allow the current law to operate fully before considering further reforms.

Bamidele made the declaration on Saturday after casting his vote in Iyin-Ekiti during the Ekiti State governorship election.

Bamidele commended the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and voters for the smooth conduct of the election and the impressive turnout recorded across the state.

While acknowledging that Nigeria’s electoral system remains a work in progress, he maintained that no changes would be made to the Electoral Act ahead of the 2027 polls.

He said, “There is no doubt that our electoral system is evolving and improving. This is one of the first major elections being conducted under the amended Electoral Act, and I have observed a high level of compliance not only by INEC but also by political parties and voters themselves. 

“Today, people are more aware of what constitutes electoral offences and the consequences such violations carry for both political parties and individuals. That growing awareness is a positive development for our democracy.”

Bamidele also expressed satisfaction with reports received from across Ekiti State regarding voter participation and the conduct of the election.

In his words, “I made several calls across the state to obtain firsthand information on how the process was progressing in different local government areas. The reports I received regarding voter turnout have been encouraging. 

“I am equally impressed by INEC’s performance, particularly the prompt deployment of officials to polling units and the timely arrival of voting materials. This represents a significant improvement on previous elections.”