In a bid to improve transparency and reduce electoral disputes, the House of Representatives on Wednesday approved significant changes to the Electoral Act. The amendments are aimed at strengthening the powers of the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), streamlining electoral procedures, and addressing gaps revealed in recent elections.
Lawmakers considered the Electoral Act Amendment Bill clause by clause, adopting provisions that reinforce INEC’s authority over election organisation, supervision, and deployment of personnel. Clauses 3, 5, and 6, covering preliminary provisions and key definitions, were updated to reflect current electoral practices. Clauses 10 and 12 further bolster INEC’s control over election logistics and management.
Amendments to Clauses 18 and 22, which cover voter registration and the compilation of the voters’ register, are designed to reduce manipulation and ensure wider inclusion of eligible voters. Clauses 23 and 29, relating to political party nominations and submission of candidates’ lists, were revised to clarify timelines, strengthen compliance, and enhance INEC oversight.
The House also approved Clauses 31, 32, and 34 on party primaries, publication of candidates’ particulars, and qualifications for elective offices to prevent pre-election irregularities. Clauses 47, 50, and 54, covering voting procedures, voter accreditation, and the use of technology in elections, were adopted to support INEC’s deployment of electronic systems.
Clause 60, on the declaration of results, and Clause 62, on collation, transmission, and custody of results, were amended to minimize post-election disputes. Clauses 64 and 65 on electoral offences and penalties were strengthened to clamp down on malpractice, including vote-buying. Clauses 71 and 73, concerning election petitions and dispute resolution timelines, were adopted, while Clause 74 was amended to streamline post-election legal processes.
However, Section 51 was deferred to a later plenary after the Deputy Speaker ruled that it was not included in the committee report and could not be considered under House rules.
The committee’s report on the bill was adopted as a working document, setting the stage for continued deliberations on remaining provisions.
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