ABUJA – A landmark electoral reform bill that proposes same-day elections across Nigeria has passed second reading in the Senate, signaling a potential shift in how elections are conducted nationwide.
The bill, sponsored by Senator Saliu Mustapha (APC – Kwara Central), seeks to amend the Electoral Act 2022 by introducing three core reforms:
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Conducting all elections on the same day.
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Reducing the campaign period.
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Reinstating elected office holders as statutory delegates in party congresses.
What the Bill Aims to Achieve
Senator Mustapha, while leading the debate, stressed the financial and operational inefficiencies of staggered elections, revealing that the cost of Nigeria’s general elections jumped from ₦1.5 billion in 1999 to over ₦350 billion in 2023.
“The current staggered election process is expensive and inefficient,” he said. “Same-day elections will save cost, boost voter turnout, and minimize political tension.”
He also advocated for shorter campaigns, stating that prolonged political seasons drain public funds, slow down governance, and heighten divisive rhetoric.
Global Models: U.S., India, Brazil
Citing global democracies such as the United States, Brazil, and India, Mustapha noted that holding elections on a single day has helped these nations streamline logistics and reduce electoral expenses, while also encouraging stronger citizen participation.
Senate Debate: Support vs. Concerns
While several Senators backed the bill, noting its potential to restore credibility, reduce voter fatigue, and avoid governance disruption, others raised operational concerns—particularly around the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC)’s capacity to manage such a task.
Senator Adams Oshiomhole, a former INEC critic turned legislator, cautioned:
“While the bill has noble intentions, INEC must be truly ready for the scale of this reform. Managing multiple ballot papers on the same day could confuse voters—especially in rural, illiterate communities.”
Key Highlights of the Electoral Reform Bill
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All elections—presidential, gubernatorial, senatorial, and house of assembly—to hold on the same day.
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Campaign periods to be shortened, easing financial strain on candidates and the government.
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President, VP, Governors, Senators, and Reps to resume roles as statutory delegates in internal party processes.
Next Steps
The Senate referred the bill to the Committee on INEC for further legislative work, with a report expected in four weeks.
If passed into law, this reform could reshape Nigeria’s electoral landscape by reducing costs, improving participation, and restoring confidence in democratic processes.
