Fayose slams rejection of Electoral Act, says Obi can’t be president
In a video shared on Instagram on Wednesday, Fayose expressed disappointment at the state of democracy, declaring: “Opposition is gone, ADC is dead on arrival. Peter Obi can never be president. Nobody can be president again unless they select you.”
He argued that recent political developments have all but eliminated the possibility of a strong opposition in future elections.
Criticism of the National Assembly and electoral reforms
Fayose criticised the National Assembly, particularly the Senate, for rejecting key electoral reforms, including the mandatory electronic transmission of election results, a measure widely regarded as essential for transparency and credibility.
“We’ve finally lost Nigeria. Electoral reform is gone. Even what former President Goodluck Jonathan started has been thrown into the dustbin. No more BVAS. Whatever they tell you is the result,” he said.
He warned that the concentration of power in the hands of a few was pushing the country towards a one-party state:
“We are now back to a one-party state, one family to rule us forever. This is sad, the saddest day of my life.”
Judiciary and national challenges
Beyond electoral concerns, Fayose also criticised the weakening of the judiciary, low remuneration for doctors, and the worsening security situation across the country.
He argued these issues collectively demonstrate that the political system no longer provides effective checks and balances.
Electoral Act amendment debate
Fayose’s comments come amid renewed debate over the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2026.
The Senate, after pressure from media and civil society stakeholders, passed the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Re-enactment) Amendment Bill after its third reading but rejected a proposed amendment to Clause 60(3) which sought to make the electronic transmission of election results mandatory.
Implications for Nigeria’s democracy
Fayose’s remarks highlight concerns over Nigeria’s democratic trajectory, the marginalisation of opposition parties, and the challenges facing the judiciary and electoral processes ahead of future elections.
