The Nigerian House of Representatives has passed significant amendments to the Electoral Act, introducing harsher penalties for electoral offenses, including vote buying and selling. The amendments aim to strengthen the electoral process and prevent fraudulent activities during elections.
During a clause-by-clause consideration of the report by the Committee on Electoral Matters, lawmakers approved stiffer penalties for individuals involved in vote buying and selling. According to the amended Clause 22, those found guilty will face a minimum of two years’ imprisonment or a fine of N5 million, or both, and a 10-year ban from contesting elections. This is a significant increase from the previous penalties, which were capped at N500,000 or a maximum of two years’ imprisonment.
The House also amended the sanctions for presiding officers who deliberately breach procedures on counting, announcement, and transmission of polling unit results. A new section prescribes a minimum fine of N500,000 or at least six months’ imprisonment, or both, for any presiding officer who willfully contravenes the provisions. Additionally, the House approved a clause mandating the release of election funds to the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC) at least one year before a general election to enhance early planning and efficient conduct of polls.
To curb electoral fraud, lawmakers increased penalties for multiple voter registration. Under the amended Clause 12, offenders now risk a minimum fine of N100,000 or at least one year’s imprisonment, or both. The Chairman of the House Committee on Electoral Matters, Adebayo Balongun, stated that the House has decided to pursue targeted amendments to the Electoral Act 2022, rather than repealing it, after far-reaching reform proposals failed to secure broad consensus among lawmakers and key stakeholders.
The amendments are part of efforts to strengthen Nigeria’s electoral process and prevent fraudulent activities during elections. The changes aim to promote transparency, accountability, and fairness in the electoral process. With these amendments, the House of Representatives has taken a significant step towards enhancing the credibility of Nigeria’s elections and promoting democratic governance. The amendments will now be sent to the Senate for consideration and possible approval.
