Nigeria's new Electoral Act challenges political defection ahead of 2027 elections
via Punch Nigeria9 min read
Nigeria's political landscape is undergoing a significant shift as the April 2026 deadline for submitting digital party membership registers approaches, impacting the 2027 general elections. For decades, Nigerian politicians have frequently switched parties, often without seeking a fresh mandate from voters. This practice, fueled by ambition and perceived strategic necessity, has been criticized for undermining the electoral process and turning parties into temporary lodgings rather than stable institutions. Notable figures like Atiku Abubakar, Peter Obi, and several state governors, including Dave Umahi, Ben Ayade, and Bello Matawalle, have previously moved between parties, often citing various reasons such as seeking federal connections or addressing internal party issues. However, the new Electoral Act 2026 aims to curb this trend. Section 77 mandates parties to maintain digital membership registers linked to the National Identification Number, to be submitted to INEC at least 30 days before primaries. Once submitted, these registers are frozen, preventing late entries or emergency adoptions. Additionally, Section 115 criminalizes multiple nominations, and Section 33 limits substitutions to cases of death or voluntary withdrawal. This legislation has created a "Freeze Zone," causing panic among politicians who relied on fluid allegiances. The Supreme Court's reserved rulings on leadership crises within parties like the PDP and ADC further complicate matters, leaving aspira
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This summary was AI-generated from a story originally published by Punch Nigeria.
Must ReadU.S. President Donald Trump has released CCTV footage and images of the suspect involved in a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C. The footage reportedly shows the suspect running into the Washington Hilton ballroom, bypassing security. Trump also shared images of a shirtless man, believed to be the suspected gunman, restrained in the foyer. Describing the individual as a “would-be assassin,” Trump stated the suspect was heavily armed and breached a security checkpoint before being stopped. According to BBC reports, the president said the suspect “charged past a security checkpoint” with multiple weapons. He added that a law enforcement officer was shot but survived due to a bulletproof vest. The incident occurred on Saturday night, causing panic and the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests. Authorities have confirmed the suspect is in custody, and investigations are ongoing.
Must ReadThe United States Secret Service has initiated an investigation into a shooting incident that took place in Washington during the annual White House Correspondents' Dinner at the Washington Hilton. The agency is collaborating with the Metropolitan Police Department to ascertain the details of the incident, which occurred near a security screening area and the main magnetometer checkpoint for guest screening. Anthony Guglielmi, Chief of Communications for the United States Secret Service, confirmed on X that all protected individuals, including the president and first lady, were safe. One suspect has been apprehended, and authorities are evaluating the condition of those involved. Guglielmi stated that teams are actively investigating and gathering information, promising updates as more details emerge. The incident has prompted renewed concerns regarding security at significant public events in the US capital, with a review of procedures anticipated as the investigation progresses.
Must ReadUS President Donald Trump described the suspect in a shooting incident at a Washington media gala as a "would-be assassin," stating the individual was heavily armed and breached security before being stopped. The incident occurred on Saturday night during the annual White House Correspondents’ Dinner at the Washington Hilton. Gunfire near a security checkpoint caused panic and led to the evacuation of officials, journalists, and guests. Trump said the suspect "charged past a security checkpoint" with multiple weapons, and one law enforcement officer was shot but survived due to a bulletproof vest. Secret Service agents quickly apprehended the suspect, and the president, first lady, and other high-profile attendees were safely escorted from the venue. Witnesses reported chaotic scenes. Trump also expressed concerns about the venue’s security. The event has been canceled and is expected to be rescheduled, with investigations ongoing into the suspect's motive and the security breach. The shooting has intensified scrutiny over security at high-profile public events in the US.
BreakingUS President Donald Trump and the First Lady were unharmed following a shooting incident at the White House Correspondents’ Dinner in Washington, D.C., on Saturday night. The United States Secret Service confirmed that a suspect has been taken into custody, with investigations ongoing in collaboration with local law enforcement. The shooting occurred near the main security screening area at the Washington Hilton, the event venue, where hundreds of journalists, politicians, and guests had gathered. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots shortly after 8:30 p.m., causing panic and leading to the swift evacuation of top officials, including Vice President J.D. Vance and cabinet members. President Trump praised security agencies for their quick and brave response, noting that the shooter had been apprehended. Organizers confirmed that the president would address the press and plans to possibly reschedule the event within 30 days. The White House Correspondents’ Dinner is an annual gathering celebrating press freedom in the United States. Authorities have not yet released full details about the suspect or possible casualties.