Lawmakers Move to Modernise Elections with E-Voting, Early Voting and PVC Alternatives

Ahead of the 2027 general elections, the National Assembly is proposing sweeping amendments to the Electoral Act 2022, aimed at modernising Nigeria’s electoral process and improving transparency.

The proposed changes, unveiled during a public hearing by the Joint Committee on Electoral Matters on Monday, include compulsory electronic voting, mandatory electronic transmission of results, early voting for essential workers, and the possible replacement of the Permanent Voter Card (PVC) with other forms of identification such as the National Identification Number (NIN) and Nigerian passport.

PVC May No Longer Be Compulsory

The National Assembly plans to amend Sections 18 and 47 of the Electoral Act to make PVCs optional. The proposal notes that the Bimodal Voter Accreditation System (BVAS) does not read the microchip embedded in PVCs, making them redundant as the sole form of voter identification.

“The use of Permanent Voter Cards (PVCs) will not be compulsory, as BVAS does not recognise the microchip in PVCs,” the proposal states. “Every registered voter can download and print their voter card as needed, eliminating the problem of buying and selling PVCs.”

Alternative forms of identification will include the NIN, passport, or birth certificate.

Challenges with BVAS and PVCs

BVAS, since its introduction, has faced recurring challenges such as failed biometric authentication, poor battery life, and weak internet connectivity, particularly in rural areas. During the 2023 elections, delayed transmission of results to the INEC Result Viewing Portal (IReV) and missing PVCs led to widespread complaints of disenfranchisement. Opposition parties and election observers also cited discrepancies between polling unit results and figures uploaded online.

Electronic Transmission of Results

To enhance transparency, lawmakers want to amend Section 60(5) to make electronic transmission of results mandatory. “The presiding officer shall transmit the results, including the total number of accredited voters, electronically and manually to the next level of collation,” the amendment reads.

Civil society groups, represented by Akin Akingbolu of Yiaga Africa, have also called for compulsory electronic voting to strengthen credibility and ensure all votes count.

Early Voting for Security and Essential Workers

A new clause under Section 2 proposes early voting for security personnel, INEC officials, journalists, accredited observers, and other ad hoc election staff. Eligible voters could cast their ballots up to 14 days before the main election day, preventing disenfranchisement during official duties.

Stiffer Penalties for Electoral Offences

Lawmakers are seeking stricter penalties for electoral offences. A presiding or collation officer distributing unstamped or unsigned ballot papers or result sheets could face at least one year in prison, a fine of N1 million, or both.

Comprehensive Electoral Reform

The reforms are part of the Electoral Act 2022 (Repeal and Enactment) Bill, 2025 (SB. 903), which aims to completely replace the existing law. The bill also addresses diaspora voting, proposes the creation of an Electoral Offences Commission, and enhances INEC’s independence.

Senator Enyinnaya Abaribe of Abia South noted on October 6 that the challenges facing Nigeria’s elections are not technological but legal, pointing to courts’ failure to keep pace with electoral innovations.

Lawmakers insist that the amendments are necessary to restore public trust, modernise the electoral system, and ensure every vote counts in future polls.