The Traffic NG

Senate, Electoral Bill

Senate President Godswill Akpabio has indicated that President Bola Tinubu is expected to soon assent to the amended Electoral Bill, raising optimism over fresh reforms aimed at strengthening Nigeria’s democratic process.

Speaking during plenary at the National Assembly, Akpabio said the legislature had concluded work on key amendments designed to enhance transparency, improve election management, and address operational gaps observed in previous polls. He expressed confidence that the President would sign the bill into law in the interest of electoral integrity.

According to the Senate President, the amendments reflect extensive consultations with stakeholders, including the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC), civil society organisations, and political actors. He noted that the revised provisions seek to clarify ambiguities around technology deployment, result transmission, party primaries, and dispute resolution.

Lawmakers argued that the bill would consolidate gains made in recent electoral cycles while tackling challenges that triggered litigation and controversy. Akpabio stressed that the reforms are not targeted at any political party but aimed at reinforcing public trust in elections.

Although details of the amendments were not exhaustively outlined during plenary, sources within the Assembly said the bill includes stronger safeguards on electronic processes, timelines for candidate substitution, and stricter penalties for electoral offences.

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Political observers say presidential assent would mark a significant milestone ahead of future elections, particularly as debates around electoral credibility continue to shape Nigeria’s political landscape.

Civil society groups have urged swift signing and implementation, emphasising the need for early preparation and voter education. Some analysts, however, cautioned that legal reforms must be matched with institutional capacity and enforcement.

Akpabio reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to supporting credible elections, noting that democratic stability depends on transparent processes and adherence to the rule of law.

The Presidency has yet to officially confirm a date for assent, but insiders suggest the signing could happen in the coming weeks.