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ADC Blasts ASUU, Civil Societies for Silence on ‘Certificate Forgery’ Bill, Warns of Threat to 2027 Elections

Published by Samuel Ayomide on March 19th, 2026.

In Ilorin, The African Democratic Congress (ADC) has strongly condemned what it described as the alarming silence of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU), student unions, and civil society groups regarding a controversial proposal by the National Assembly that could legalize certificate forgery in elections.

Speaking with journalists in Ilorin, Kwara State, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Mallam Bolaji Abdullahi, warned that leaving opposition parties alone to challenge the legislation undermines Nigeria’s educational standards and the integrity of governance.

“The struggle for a fair and accountable system has historically involved civil society, labour unions, and student movements. It was never left solely to political opposition,” Abdullahi said, referencing Nigeria’s pre-independence activism.

According to him, the proposed bill reportedly seeks to prevent certificate forgery from being used as grounds to challenge electoral outcomes, a move he described as “a dangerous precedent that could erode public trust and encourage corruption.” He likened the proposal to a scenario where armed robbers could escape justice if not caught at the scene.

Abdullahi also criticized the APC-led federal government for prioritizing power retention over the welfare of citizens, citing insecurity, abductions, and rising poverty as evidence of failed leadership. He urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to allow the public to scrutinize his administration’s performance, stressing that “you can’t mark your own script.”

On his personal political trajectory, Abdullahi denied plans to contest the Kwara State governorship in 2027, emphasizing his focus on strengthening opposition politics. “We’ll contest in all elections in 2027, but as for throwing my hat into the governorship race, that’s not on the agenda,” he said.

He further rejected any overtures from the ruling APC, asserting his role in ensuring a credible opposition: “Every generation has a duty to contribute to bettering the country. I believe I’m playing that role as assigned by God.”

According to reports from The Punch and The Guardian Nigeria, the ADC’s stance has heightened discussions over the integrity of Nigeria’s upcoming elections and the role of civil society in safeguarding democratic processes.