The House of Representatives has moved a step closer to overhauling Nigeria’s electoral framework by approving and amending key provisions of the Electoral Act Amendment Bill.
The amendments are aimed at enhancing the powers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), tightening electoral procedures, and addressing gaps exposed during recent elections.
Clause-by-Clause Review Strengthens Electoral Oversight
The bill was examined clause by clause at plenary. Lawmakers approved Clauses 3, 5, and 6, which deal with preliminary provisions and definitions, to align existing interpretations with current electoral practices. Clauses 10 and 12, which reinforce INEC’s authority over the organisation, supervision, and management of elections, including logistics and deployment of personnel, were also adopted.
Clauses 18 and 22, concerning voter registration and the compilation, maintenance, and display of the voters’ register, were amended to curb manipulation and ensure inclusion of eligible voters.
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Amendments to Clauses 23 and 29, covering political party nominations and submission of candidates’ lists to INEC, were made to clarify timelines, strengthen compliance, and enhance INEC’s oversight.
Addressing Pre-Election Irregularities and Technology Use
Clauses 31, 32, and 34, relating to party primaries, publication of candidates’ particulars, and qualifications for elective offices, were approved to prevent pre-election irregularities.
Clauses 47, 50, and 54, which cover voting procedures, voter accreditation, and the use of technology in elections, were also endorsed, providing legal backing for INEC’s electronic systems.
Clause 60, addressing the declaration of results, and Clause 62, covering the collation, transmission, and custody of results, were strengthened to reduce post-election disputes.
Clauses 64 and 65, on electoral offences and penalties, signal a tougher stance against malpractice, including vote-buying and other violations.
Post-Election Legal Processes Streamlined
Clauses 71 and 73, which deal with election petitions and timelines for dispute resolution, were approved.
Clause 74 was adopted with amendments aimed at streamlining post-election legal processes and ensuring faster resolution of disputes arising from elections.
The approval and amendments of these provisions are expected to enhance transparency, improve the conduct of elections, and reduce the frequency of post-election conflicts across the country.
Rafiyat Sadiq is a political, justice, and human rights reporter with Pinnacle Daily, known for fearless reporting and impactful storytelling. At Pinnacle Daily, she brings clarity and depth to issues shaping governance, democracy, and the protection of citizens’ rights.
