President Bola Tinubu has dismissed sustained criticism of the Electoral Act 2026 by opposition political parties, describing the attacks as a disservice to the Nigerian people.
Speaking on Saturday at the 4th Elective National Convention of the All Progressives Congress (APC) at Eagle Square, Abuja, the President defended the legislation, which has been a focal point of political debate since its passage by the National Assembly.
“It is public knowledge that the processes leading to the amendment of the 2022 Electoral Act passed through the crucible of legislative scrutiny, including public hearings,” Tinubu told delegates, party leaders, and supporters gathered for the convention.
“The Electoral Act was passed by the National Assembly, elected by the Nigerian people in accordance with the 1999 Constitution. Therefore, our commitment is to uphold the rule of law, conduct credible elections and protect the integrity of our elections, and continue building a stronger, secure, and united nation.”
The Electoral Act 2026, which replaced the 2022 version, has drawn sharp criticism from opposition parties, who have argued that certain provisions undermine electoral competitiveness and tilt the playing field in favour of the ruling party. The President’s remarks marked the first time he has directly addressed those criticisms in a public forum.
Tinubu used the convention platform to reiterate his belief in democratic competition, pushing back against suggestions that his administration harbours ambitions of establishing one-party rule.
“We do not seek a one-party state. Democracy thrives on vibrant and healthy competition. As a statesman and political leader, I believe in a credible opposition—one that can challenge, question and help refine policies. That is how statecraft improves, and good governance is achieved. That is how nations advance”, he declared.
The convention, held under the theme “Unity in Progress: Consolidating the Renewed Hope Agenda,” served as a formal gathering for the party to elect new leadership and reaffirm its direction ahead of the 2027 general election cycle.
Tinubu took the opportunity to caution party members against internal divisions, warning that political parties often falter not through electoral defeats but when ego overrides ideology and individual interests threaten the collective good.
“Our greatest strength has never been in our size or numbers, but our unity,” he said. “Political parties do not fail only through electoral defeats. Often, they falter when ego overrides ideology or when ambition replaces discipline. They fail when individual interests threaten the collective good. We must guard against those tendencies at all costs.”
The President also paid tribute to the founding leaders of the APC, which was formed in 2013 through a merger of opposition parties. He called for a moment of silence in memory of former President Muhammadu Buhari, the first elected president produced by the party, who passed away earlier this year.
“Let us stand and observe a moment of silence in memory of our first leader and the first elected president produced by our party, President Muhammadu Buhari,” Tinubu said, as delegates rose to their feet.
He also acknowledged other departed founding members and urged the party faithful to ensure that the vision of those who built the platform is not diminished.
Beyond the political messaging, Tinubu used the address to present what he described as evidence of economic recovery under his administration. He cited declining inflation, growing investor confidence, and improvements in national infrastructure as indicators that the country is moving from survival mode to stability.
“Inflation has declined steadily for eight consecutive months to 14.45%, while food prices are easing, bringing gradual relief to households,” he said. “Business confidence is returning, with 12 consecutive months of economic activity expansion.”
He acknowledged that the road to reform had been difficult and acknowledged ongoing challenges, including electricity supply issues and ageing transmission infrastructure. However, he maintained that the government’s policy choices were laying the foundation for long-term prosperity.
“We knew the road to reform would be tough,” Tinubu said. “We knew rebuilding Nigeria would require courage, patience, and difficult decisions. But we also knew: no nation rises by hiding from the truth. No economy grows by sustaining wasteful subsidies or dysfunctional priorities. No future is built on perpetual self-denial.”
The President also addressed specific constituencies within the party, calling on APC leadership to create more opportunities for youth and women to participate meaningfully in governance and party structures.
“To the young people of our party and our nation, let me speak directly to you,” he said. “You are not only the future of Nigeria. You are our hope for a more glorious and assured future. This party must continue to open more doors for youth participation, not as props, but as decision makers.”
He issued a similar charge regarding women’s inclusion. “A party that excludes women weakens itself; a party that empowers women will be stronger and more resilient,” Tinubu said. “We have heard your calls, and we will act to ensure more women occupy leadership roles in party organs and government at all levels.”
The convention was organised by a planning committee led by former Katsina State Governor Rt. Hon. Aminu Bello Masari and former Senate President Senator Anyim Pius Anyim. Tinubu commended several APC governors for their roles in the convention’s organisation, including Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, Yobe State Governor Mai Mala Buni, Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma, and Ogun State Governor Dapo Abiodun.
As the party looks toward the 2027 elections, Tinubu charged newly elected leaders to carry their responsibilities with humility and fairness.
“To all those who will be elected today: carry this trust with humility, fairness, and unwavering commitment to our party’s ideals,” he said. “The future of APC, and Nigeria’s democracy, depends on your leadership. Lead with courage, lead with integrity, and lead with vision.”
The convention proceeded with delegates casting votes for party leadership positions, including the national chairman and other members of the National Working Committee.
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