Senate Sets Up Special Committee to Fast-Track Electoral Act Amendment

The Nigerian Senate has inaugurated a special committee to review and harmonise divergent positions on the ongoing amendment of the Electoral Act 2022, in a decisive move aimed at strengthening the country’s electoral framework ahead of future elections.

The committee will be chaired by Senator Niyi Adegbomire, Chairman of the Senate Committee on Judiciary, Human Rights and Legal Matters. Other members include Senators Adamu Aleiro, Waziri Tambuwal, Adams Oshiomhole, Mohammed Goje, Tony Nwoye, and Titus Zam.

The decision to constitute the committee followed several hours of intense closed-door deliberations by lawmakers. The Senate has directed the panel to conclude its assignment within 48 hours and submit its report ahead of the plenary session scheduled for next Tuesday.

Explaining the rationale behind the exercise, the Senate emphasized that the amendment seeks to reform Nigeria’s electoral process by promoting transparency, boosting voter confidence, and encouraging wider citizen participation.

Speaking during plenary, lawmakers noted that the review would address loopholes exposed in previous elections and ensure that the electoral system remains credible and resilient, a cornerstone of Nigeria’s democratic stability.

Key issues under consideration by the committee include the electronic transmission of election results, stricter sanctions for electoral offences, and the expansion of voter identification options to curb fraud and malpractice.

Senate leadership stressed that the tight 48-hour timeline reflects the urgency of establishing a robust legal framework that aligns with global best practices and meets the expectations of Nigerians. The committee is expected to present its report for consideration and possible adoption at the next plenary.