Former presidential candidate of the Labour Party, Peter Obi, has criticised lawmakers over proposed changes to Nigeria’s electoral laws, warning that the move could weaken democratic accountability and shield electoral misconduct.
In a statement issued on March 13, 2026, Obi expressed concern over what he described as a troubling contradiction in the country’s political system.
“Nigeria is facing a troubling contradiction. What type of country are we trying to bequeath for our children?” Obi said.
He faulted lawmakers for proposing stiff penalties for politicians who hold membership in two political parties while simultaneously removing certificate forgery, age falsification and false declarations as grounds for challenging election outcomes at tribunals.
“The same lawmakers who have proposed a fine of ₦10 million and up to two years in prison for dual political party membership have simultaneously removed certificate forgery, age falsification, and false declarations as grounds for challenging an election in a tribunal. This is in direct contradiction to the provisions of the Constitution of Nigeria (1999, as amended),” he said.
