Stephen Ukandu, Umuahia
The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has said sustained public pressure compelled the 10th Senate to reverse controversial provisions of the Electoral Amendment Bill, particularly clauses relating to the electronic transmission of election results.
The party described the development as a major victory for Nigerians but cautioned that citizens must remain vigilant until the bill is fully passed and assented to by the President.
This position was contained in a statement issued by the ADC National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, who attributed the Senate’s decision to coordinated civic actions across the country, both online and offline.
According to Abdullahi, the reversal demonstrated the power of collective citizen engagement in a democratic society.
“The decision of the 10th Senate to urgently reverse the contentious provisions of the Electoral Amendment Bill it passed is a significant victory for the Nigerian people. It clearly shows that when citizens act with unity, clarity of purpose and resolve, they can achieve meaningful change,” he said.
He noted that the development went beyond a mere legislative U-turn, describing it as evidence of growing political awareness and civic consciousness among Nigerians.
“This outcome is not just a reversal by the legislature; it is a testament to the resilience, vigilance and rising political consciousness of Nigerians from all walks of life.
“From street protests to digital advocacy, Nigerians have once again demonstrated that sovereignty truly belongs to the people,” the statement read.
While welcoming the Senate’s action, the ADC warned against complacency, stressing that the legislative process is still ongoing.
“This is only a step forward. We must sustain this momentum to ensure that the amended bill is passed in full, receives presidential assent, is properly gazetted and becomes enforceable law,” Abdullahi said.
He added that democracy thrives on active citizen participation, noting that “the price of democracy is eternal vigilance.”
