New Electoral Bill Targets Transparency, Credibility Ahead of 2027 Polls
In a landmark move to restore credibility and public confidence in Nigeria’s electoral system, the National Assembly has unveiled a new bill that seeks to make the electronic transmission of election results mandatory across the country.
The proposed legislation, currently being jointly reviewed by both chambers — the Senate and the House of Representatives — aims to amend the Electoral Act 2022 by removing the Independent National Electoral Commission’s (INEC) discretionary powers on result transmission.
Under the current law, INEC has the authority to determine whether election results are transmitted electronically or manually — a provision many critics argue opened the door to manipulation, irregularities, and confusion during the 2023 general elections.
If passed, the bill will compel INEC to conduct simultaneous electronic and manual transmission of results, ensuring real-time transparency and curbing post-election controversies.
Major Electoral Reforms Proposed
The bill introduces sweeping reforms designed to strengthen Nigeria’s democracy and election credibility. Among the key provisions are:
Mandatory electronic transmission of results nationwide.
Early general elections to be conducted in November 2026, six months before the expiration of current terms — to ensure all election petitions are concluded before newly elected leaders assume office.
Early voting for essential workers, including security officers, INEC staff, journalists, and accredited observers.
Voting without a Permanent Voter Card (PVC), provided a voter’s identity can be digitally verified.
Legal expert Kunle Adegoke (SAN), speaking on Arise TV, hailed the bill as a “bold and progressive stride” that goes beyond electoral scheduling.
> “This reform, if passed, will end the undemocratic practice of swearing in leaders while legal disputes are still pending in court,” Adegoke stated.
While the initiative has received applause from civil society groups and electoral reform advocates, it has also drawn caution from some opposition parties.
The Nigeria Electoral Reform Coalition (NERC) described the bill as “a decisive step toward transparent democracy and accountability,” commending the National Assembly for responding to citizens’ demand for electoral integrity.
However, the African Democratic Congress (ADC) and a few other opposition voices warned that the proposed shift in election timelines might “disrupt governance and administrative planning,” urging lawmakers to strike a balance between reform and practicality.
Parliamentary committees are scheduled to hold further public hearings in the coming weeks as stakeholders — including INEC officials, political parties, and civil society organizations — prepare to make submissions.
Lawmakers have pledged swift passage of the bill before the 2026 political calendar begins, emphasizing that credible elections are essential to sustaining public trust and democratic stability.
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