The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly cautioned the National Assembly against its plan to shift the 2027 general elections to November 2026, warning that such a move could harm Nigeria’s democratic process and disrupt governance. The party argued that the proposal, contained in the Electoral Act Amendment Bill 2025, would throw the country into endless political campaigns instead of focusing on development.

In a statement by its National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, the ADC described the idea as a “short-sighted plan” that would shorten the time available for actual governance. The party said that advancing the election date would push Nigeria into a “permanent campaign mode,” leaving little room for leaders to deliver on their promises.

According to the ADC, the plan would also affect national planning and reduce the effectiveness of government institutions. The party noted that if the elections are held in November 2026, campaigns could start as early as 2025, meaning that the government would have only two years of meaningful work before political distractions take over. “Policies will stall, projects will be abandoned, and focus will shift from service to politics,” the party warned.

The ADC urged lawmakers to instead focus on electoral and judicial reforms that would ensure credible elections and quick resolution of petitions. It said the real solution lies in strengthening institutions like INEC and the judiciary rather than cutting short the current political calendar.

The party also criticized the ruling All Progressives Congress (APC) for prioritizing power over governance. It stressed that Nigeria needs stronger democratic systems, not hurried election schedules. “If the goal is to conclude petitions before inaugurations, then the answer is judicial efficiency, not rushing democracy,” the ADC concluded.