The National Assembly has reaffirmed its commitment to fortifying Nigeria’s democratic process, announcing that it will prioritize the finalization of the Electoral Bill, 2025, and key constitutional amendments as part of its 2026 legislative agenda.
Speaking during the resumption of plenary on Tuesday, Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Benjamin Okezie Kalu, emphasized that refining the Electoral Act is a top priority for the current legislative year. He assured the public that outstanding issues within the Act would be addressed with urgency to ensure a seamless framework ahead of the 2027 general elections.
“If there is still any work left on the Electoral Act, we will make sure we fine-tune it this week,” Kalu stated, noting that the House and Senate are working in tandem to conclude the process.
Reinforcing the legislature’s stance, Senate Leader Opeyemi Bamidele (APC, Ekiti Central) detailed the stringent measures contained in the new Bill aimed at curbing electoral fraud. A major highlight of the proposed legislation is the introduction of aggressive sanctions for vote buying, including:
Fines of up to N5 million.
Prison terms of up to two years.
A 10-year ban from contesting elective positions for offenders.
Furthermore, the Bill seeks to impose even harsher penalties for the falsification of election results and the obstruction of election officials.
To enhance transparency, the 2025 Bill introduces several technological mandates, including:
QR-coded electronic voter identification.
Mandatory electronic transmission of results.
Standardized procedures for delegate selection during party primaries to ensure internal party democracy.
Beyond electoral reform, the National Assembly is set to scrutinize the 2026 Budget and finalize work on constitutional amendments. Relevant committees on INEC are expected to submit their reports shortly for a clause-by-clause consideration by the Committee of the Whole.
Before adjourning until Wednesday, January 28, the National Assembly observed a moment of silence to honor the memory of three distinguished lawmakers who recently passed away: Senator Godiya Akwashiki (Nasarawa North), Senator Okechukwu Ezea (Enugu North), and Senator John Kojo-Brambaifa (Bayelsa West).
