In a bold move to reform Nigeria’s electoral system, the House of Representatives has introduced the Electoral Act (Amendment) Bill 2025, with the headline provision mandating that all general elections in 2027 be held on a single day. This includes presidential, National Assembly, governorship, and state assembly elections, according to The Guardian Nigeria.
The bill, which recently scaled second reading in both chambers of the National Assembly, aims to reduce electoral costs, improve logistics, and enhance voter participation. According to the House Committee on Electoral Matters, the reform is part of a wider effort to streamline Nigeria’s voting process and strengthen public trust in democratic institutions.
Speaking on the floor, a lawmaker noted, “Holding all elections in one day eliminates the prolonged political distractions and tension caused by staggered polls. It will also drastically cut down the billions INEC spends across multiple election days.”
Currently, elections in Nigeria are spread over weeks or months, often creating logistical and security burdens for the Independent National Electoral Commission (INEC). Under the proposed changes, INEC would be required to conduct all major elections simultaneously, using a restructured ballot system.
The bill also introduces new spending caps for candidates and political parties. It seeks to shorten official campaign periods and curb the rising cost of electioneering, which reportedly soared to over ₦350 billion in the 2023 general elections.
In addition, the legislation proposes eliminating by-elections by mandating that any vacant seat be filled through party nominations or through the next general election cycle, unless a judicial ruling directs otherwise.
While widely praised by civil society groups for its potential to reduce electoral fatigue and improve efficiency, some lawmakers have raised concerns about INEC’s capacity to manage such a massive operation on a single day.
The Centre for Democracy and Development (CDD) applauded the initiative but warned that voter education, ballot simplification, and increased transparency would be critical to avoid confusion and disenfranchisement.
The bill is now in the public hearing stage, with a final version expected to be passed before the end of the legislative session. If enacted, it would take full effect for the 2027 general elections, marking a major shift in Nigeria’s democratic process.
Find Verified News At Your fingertips Click The Button Below
