The Senate has begun a far-reaching review of Nigeria’s electoral and fiscal frameworks, with proposals that could see vote-buyers barred from elections for up to 10 years.
Opeyemi Bamidele, the Leader of the Senate, , disclosed the developments ahead of the National Assembly’s resumption from the Christmas break, saying the ongoing amendment of the Electoral Act would significantly strengthen electoral integrity and institutional independence.
According to him, the proposed Electoral Bill, 2025 introduces stiff sanctions for electoral offences, including vote-buying, alongside structural reforms aimed at improving the credibility and security of elections.
“We have started the review of the Electoral Act, 2022 clause by clause to achieve this end. With the Electoral Bill, 2025, we have achieved quite a lot to improve how we manage our elections; enhance the credibility of the process and ensure the political parties are accountable,” Bamidele said.
“This vision is in line with the sustained public demands for an electoral system that will guarantee the security of votes.”
He explained that the bill contains “no fewer than 20 defining highlights” that would clearly distinguish it from previous electoral regimes.
“First, under Section 12 (1–2), the Bill recognises the voting rights of prisoners and the obligations of the Independent National Electoral Commission to register all eligible inmates in all correctional facilities nationwide.
“With respect to vote buying, the sanctions range from a fine of N5 million to a two-year imprisonment and a 10-year ban from contesting elections,” the statement read.
He said the bill also recommends mandatory jail terms and higher fines for offences such as result falsification and obstruction of election officials.
(Business Day)
