Electoral Act amendment won’t disrupt 2027 plans – APC

The Progressive Governors Forum (PGF) has dismissed concerns that the ongoing amendment of the Electoral Act by the National Assembly could disrupt preparations for the 2027 general elections, insisting that political parties must continue to operate within existing laws and timelines issued by the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC).
 
The position was reiterated at a high-level meeting of progressive governors held on Wednesday, at the Imo State Governor’s Lodge, Asokoro, Abuja, with the leadership of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in attendance.

“Amendment of laws, including the Constitution, which is the grand norm, is a continuous process,” Hope Uzodimma, the chairman of the Forum and Governor of Imo State said. “There is no vacuum.”

According to the APC, political activities must be guided by the legal framework currently in force until any amendments are concluded. 

“We have to work with the Constitution and the Electoral Act that is in place. And we have to adhere to INEC timetables as a political party,” he added.

“So it has nothing to do with the activities of the political party.”

The resolutions of the meeting were contained in a communiqué issued by the Progressive Governors Forum.

In the communiqué, the PGF reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening the APC through internal reforms, pledging to deepen internal democracy, strengthen party structures and promote transparency, accountability and inclusiveness across all levels of the federation.

The Forum also reviewed and endorsed the timetable and institutional framework approved by the APC’s National Executive Committee (NEC) for the conduct of Ward, Local Government, State and Zonal congresses, as well as the party’s national convention. 

On party administration, the governors welcomed a briefing by the APC National Chairman on the party’s ongoing national e-registration and digital membership update, which they said had recorded “significant growth, including increased youth participation and the integration of National Identity Number (NIN) verification.”

The PGF noted that the digital membership exercise would enhance data-driven planning, improve demographic insights and strengthen grassroots engagement across states and communities. 

The Forum further stressed the need for transparent and coordinated financial management in the conduct of party congresses and conventions, to ensure “fairness, consistency, and accountability across all states, including those without APC-governed administrations.” 

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Reaffirming its commitment to unity and internal cohesion, the PGF underscored the importance of responsible leadership communication and collective discipline in strengthening public confidence in the party’s democratic processes.

The governors also announced a “schedule of strategic engagements and state visits aimed at reinforcing grassroots structures and party cohesion, beginning with a visit to Taraba State.”

In addition, the Forum “formally welcomed the governors of Taraba and Plateau States into its fold, reaffirming its resolve to work closely with the APC leadership to advance national development, democratic consolidation and people-centred governance.”

INEC is expected to publish the timetable and schedule of activities for the 2027 general elections by February 2026, in line with statutory requirements.