Nigeria’s House of Representatives Approves Electoral Act Amendments

The Nigerian House of Representatives has taken a significant step towards reforming the country’s electoral process by approving amendments to the Electoral Act Amendment Bill. The proposed changes aim to strengthen the powers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) and improve the overall transparency and fairness of elections.

During a plenary session, lawmakers reviewed the bill clause by clause, adopting several provisions designed to enhance election management and reduce disputes. The approved amendments include clearer definitions of key terms, reinforcement of INEC’s authority over election organisation, and measures to prevent voter manipulation and expand voter inclusion.

According to Kaduna lawmaker Fatima Balarabe, accurate and up-to-date legal definitions are crucial to preventing ambiguity and ensuring the smooth conduct of elections. The amendments also clarify timelines and compliance measures for political party nominations and submission of candidates’ lists to INEC.

The House approved provisions related to voter registration, compilation and display of voters’ registers, voting procedures, and the deployment of technology in elections. Deputy Speaker Benjamin Kalu emphasized that the amendments will enable INEC to efficiently deploy its staff and resources, ensuring the smooth conduct of elections.

The proposed changes aim to address weaknesses exposed during recent elections and reduce pre- and post-election disputes. Lawmakers hope that the amendments will help protect citizens’ right to vote and promote transparency and fairness in the electoral process.