Nigeria’s Electoral Act standoff sparks emergency Senate plenary, PDP faction tensions, and Ghana recalls envoy over alleged electoral malpractice
Nigeria is experiencing heightened political tension following amendments to the Electoral Act, with the Senate calling an emergency plenary and internal divisions escalating within the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP).
Also read: INEC Warns Party Infighting Undermines Nigeria’s Electoral Integrity
The developments come amid growing public scrutiny of the electoral process and regional diplomatic responses.
The Senate, led by President Godswill Akpabio, announced a reconvening for an emergency sitting on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, after widespread backlash over the rejection of mandatory real-time electronic transmission of election results.
The Nigeria Labour Congress has warned of potential nationwide protests, while the Movement for Credible Elections has planned a mass demonstration in Abuja under the banner Occupy NASS.
Tensions within the PDP intensified as the Wike-backed caretaker committee prepared to reopen the party’s national secretariat at Wadata Plaza, citing a Federal High Court judgment in Ibadan.
In contrast, the Turaki-led National Working Committee cautioned against unilateral action, emphasising ongoing appeals. Both factions remain confident in their legal positions.
On the diplomatic front, Ghana recalled its High Commissioner to Nigeria, Mohammed Ahmed, following allegations of voter inducement during the National Democratic Congress primaries.
The recall, ordered by President John Mahama, was aimed at safeguarding public trust and avoiding perceptions of impropriety. Ahmed has denied any wrongdoing, while the NDC has launched an internal investigation into the matter.
Meanwhile, confusion over the Federal Government’s electricity metering programme prompted the Nigerian Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to clarify that not all meters are free.
Meters supplied under the World Bank-funded Distribution Sector Recovery Programme are free, while those obtained via the Meter Asset Provider scheme may involve approved costs.
Abroad, legal proceedings commenced in Canada against a Nigerian-born resident, Kayode Roberts, over alleged hate-motivated harassment targeting a neighbour.
Authorities have classified the case as a potential hate-motivated offence, which could influence sentencing if proven.
Also read: PDP Warns Senate Against Ignoring Nigerians’ Patience
As the political, regulatory, and international developments unfold, Nigerians are being urged to stay informed and closely monitor the evolving situation.
